Glossary Archive

To "set sail" means to begin a voyage or journey by sea, typically by hoisting the sails of a sailboat or ship to catch the wind and propel the vessel forward. "Setting sail" is a phrase deeply rooted in maritime navigation traditions. It refers to when a wind-powered vessel begins its journey by raising its...

A U-shaped metal fitting with a pin or bolt across the opening, used in marine applications to connect ropes, chains, or other fittings securely.  A shackle is an essential piece of hardware in the maritime world, widely used for securing and connecting various components of a vessel's rigging, anchor systems, or mooring lines. It typically consists of...

Many sailing vessels and most motor cruisers will have a shaftdrive transmission system. A shaft runs from the gearbox, through the hull beneath the waterline to the propeller/s.

Shaft drive refers to a method of transferring power from an engine to a boat's propeller. In this system, a driveshaft connects the engine to the propeller, transmitting power through gears or a universal joint, usually through a cutlass bearing. Shaft drives are commonly used in larger vessels and provide reliable and efficient propulsion. They...

The part of an anchor that digs into the seabed to secure the boat in place.  The Shank refers to the long, vertical part of an anchor that connects the crown to the flukes. The shank plays a crucial role in anchoring a boat securely in place. It is designed to penetrate the seabed and...

Sea area of the Met Office Shipping Forecast. Lies off the west coast of Ireland at the mouth of the River Shannon. From the Shannon Estuary (Gaelic “Sionainn”), Shannon sees west to southwest winds of Force 4–6 and moderate seas, with occasional strong winter gusts. The 1822 storm surge flooded Limerick, prompting improvements to estuary...

A line or rope used to control the angle of a sail relative to the wind. In sailing, a sheet is an essential part of the rigging system and plays a crucial role in adjusting the sail's position to optimise the boat's performance. Sheets control the trim, or angle, of the sails. Each sail on...

A maritime weather broadcast provided by the UK Met Office, offering vital information on sea conditions, wind, and visibility for seafarers in British and nearby waters. The Shipping Forecast is an essential service for mariners, providing concise and reliable weather updates for the safety of those navigating the seas around the British Isles. It is...

A designated route in a body of water that is regularly used by commercial and cargo vessels to ensure safe and efficient maritime navigation. A shipping lane, also referred to as a sea lane or maritime corridor, is a predefined pathway in oceans, seas, or other navigable waters that facilitates the orderly movement of ships....

Neat and efficient