Glossary Archive

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is tailored for those planning long-distance offshore passages. It delves into celestial navigation, advanced passage planning, and worldwide meteorology. This shore-based course is perfect for aspiring Yachtmasters and experienced sailors looking to expand their knowledge.

Publication compiled to support RYA Theory courses. The RYA Training Almanac contains exerts that mimic Nautical Almanacs in the real world.

A specialised, non-navigational chart produced by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) for teaching and practising navigation and chartwork skills in a controlled learning environment. The RYA Training Chart is a critical tool used in maritime education, particularly in courses designed to teach navigation, passage planning, and pilotage. These charts are not intended for actual navigation...

An international standard developed by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) for the management, exchange, and interoperability of hydrographic and marine geospatial data. The S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model is a comprehensive framework designed to modernise and standardise the handling, sharing, and use of hydrographic and marine geospatial data in the maritime domain. Developed by the...

A zinc plate fastened to the hull to prevent corrosion of metal fittings on the hull

The RYA Safe and Fun Safeguarding course is an online program aimed at instructors, coaches, and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults in a boating context. The course provides guidance on recognizing and responding to safeguarding concerns, creating a safe environment, and understanding legal responsibilities. It’s a mandatory qualification for RYA instructors and emphasizes...

The RYA Safety Boat course is essential for those providing rescue and safety cover for water sports or racing events. Participants learn advanced techniques for towing, recovering capsized boats, and assisting different types of watercraft. The course emphasizes proactive planning, effective communication, and managing safety operations in varying conditions. Ideal for club volunteers, instructors, and...

An international maritime treaty that sets minimum safety standards for ship construction, equipment, and operation. Its primary goal is to ensure the safety of life at sea by regulating various aspects of maritime safety, including ship design, fire protection, navigation equipment, lifesaving appliances, and emergency procedures. SOLAS applies to all commercial ships engaged in international...

See Fairway mark.

The Saffir-Simpson Scale is a classification system that categorises hurricanes based on their wind speed and potential for damage. It ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest), each representing a range of sustained wind speeds and associated impacts. The scale was developed in the early 1970s by engineer Herbert Saffir and meteorologist Robert...