Glossary Archive

To allow a line, rope, or cable to move freely through a block, fairlead, or other fitting. The direction a vessel is moving, particularly when sailing with the wind directly behind it. In maritime terminology, "run" can refer to both the action of allowing a rope or line to move freely and the specific point...

The act of sailing a boat downwind, with the wind coming from astern.  Running is one of the main points of sail, where a vessel moves with the wind coming from directly behind or at a broad angle from the stern. This is generally the most comfortable and stable point of sail, as the boat...

A rigging component on a sailboat that helps support the mast. It runs from each lateral corner of the stern to the mast at the level where the forestay begins in a fractional rig.   Key functions of a running backstay: Mast support: It helps to prevent the mast from bending aft under load, especially in strong winds...

A navigational fix when only a single landmark is available.  Two bearings are taken and plotted at different times, making allowance for distance travelled

The ropes, lines, and cables that control a sailing vessel’s sails and other movable components. Running rigging is a critical part of a sailboat's overall rigging system. It is divided into two main categories: standing and running. While standing rigging supports the mast and remains relatively fixed, running rigging is dynamic and used to adjust...

The national governing body for sailing, motorboating, and other recreational boating activities in the United Kingdom.  The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is responsible for promoting and regulating boating activities, ensuring safety standards, and providing training and certification for sailors and powerboaters. Established in 1875, the RYA oversees a wide range of disciplines, including dinghy sailing,...

The RYA DofE Centre course is aimed at individuals and organizations offering Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award activities with a sailing or water-based focus. This course provides guidance on integrating RYA training into DofE programs, emphasizing safety, skill development, and participant engagement. It ensures leaders are equipped to deliver high-quality, rewarding experiences that align with...

A lightweight Plotter, suitable for use in a classroom for navigation exercises. This handy size plotter has been specifically designed to be slightly smaller, lighter, thinner and more flexible; perfect for the smaller chart table, sending overseas and including within packages of other material. The plotter includes: Chart symbols for DR fix, Estimated Position, GPS...

The RYA Diesel Engine course is designed for boat operators seeking to understand their engine's basic maintenance and troubleshooting. This one-day practical course teaches participants to diagnose and fix common problems, ensuring reliability during voyages and fostering confidence in engine care.

The Youth Sailing Scheme - Start Sailing Stage 2 builds on the basics introduced in Stage 1. Young sailors refine their steering and sail control skills and learn to handle a dinghy in slightly more challenging conditions. The course emphasizes safety, confidence, and independence, making it a fun and educational next step for budding sailors.