Glossary Archive

A saildrive is a transmission system from the vessel's inboard engine. It closely resembles an outboard engine but is fixed in place and sticks through the hull of the vessel.

A sail drive is a transmission system for a boat whose inboard engine has a horizontal output shaft. The sail drive's input shaft is, therefore, also horizontal. That input shaft is geared to drive a vertical intermediate shaft extending downward through the hull. The intermediate shaft is then geared to drive a horizontal propeller shaft mounted on...

Sailing directions, also known as nautical directions or pilots, are publications that provide detailed information for navigating coastal and inland waters. They typically include descriptions of navigational hazards, recommended routes, tidal information, port facilities, and other relevant details to assist mariners in safely navigating a specific area. Sailing directions are essential resources for sailors, boaters,...

A designated storage space aboard a vessel where sails and related equipment are kept when not in use. A sail locker is an essential feature on many sailing vessels, particularly those designed for long voyages or competitive sailing. It is typically located below deck to ensure the sails are protected from the elements and to...

Lines used to lash a lowered sail to the boom or guardrails to prevent it blowing about

The concentration of dissolved salts in water, typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt) or practical salinity units (PSU). Salinity is a crucial factor in marine environments, as it influences the density, buoyancy, and overall chemistry of seawater. It is primarily determined by the amount of dissolved salts, such as sodium chloride, magnesium, calcium, and...

The main cabin of a vessel

The coordinated efforts undertaken to locate and assist individuals in distress or imminent danger, typically at sea, and to bring them to safety.  Search and Rescue (SAR) is a critical operation in maritime environments, designed to respond to emergencies where individuals are lost, injured, or in peril. These operations are often carried out by specialised...

An emergency device that responds to radar signals by transmitting a series of pulses to help rescuers locate a vessel or liferaft in distress.  A Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) is an essential piece of safety equipment used in maritime emergencies to assist in locating vessels, liferafts, or individuals in distress. When activated, a SART...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels above certain power or length limits in German waters.  The Sportbootführerschein (SBF) is a mandatory licence for recreational boaters in Germany, covering both inland and coastal waters. It is divided into two main categories: the Sportbootführerschein Binnen (SBF Binnen) for inland waterways and...