Glossary Archive

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...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels on inland waterways.  The Sportbootführerschein Binnen (SBF Binnen) is a mandatory licence in Germany for those operating recreational boats with an engine of 15 horsepower (11.03 kW) or more on inland waterways, including rivers, lakes, and canals. The licence is available for both...

A German boating licence required for operating recreational motorboats and sailing vessels with an engine of more than 15 horsepower in coastal waters.  The Sportbootführerschein See (SBF See) is the official German boating licence for navigating coastal and offshore waters beyond inland waterways. It is mandatory for operating recreational boats with an engine exceeding 15...

The International Maritime Signal Flag Sierra. Meaning I am operating astern propulsion.If appended with a Numeral Pennant, Speed (velocity) in knots.

Amount of cable or 'rode' which is let out when anchoring or laying a cable.