Glossary Archive

A tide with the greatest difference between high and low water occurring when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned during new and full moons. A spring tide is a natural tidal phenomenon that occurs twice each lunar month during the new and full moon phases. It is characterised by the largest tidal range, the...

A sudden increase of wind speed often associated with a line of low dark clouds representing an advancing cold front

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...

Vertical post or support, typically made of metal, used on a vessel to hold lifelines, guardrails, or other safety barriers in place. Stanchions are an essential component of a vessel's safety infrastructure, providing support for lifelines or guardrails that prevent crew and passengers from accidentally falling overboard. These upright posts are usually constructed from durable...

A primary tidal reference location for which full tidal predictions, including times and heights of high and low water, are published.  Standard Ports serve as the main reference points for tidal predictions in nautical almanacs and tide tables. These ports have well-established tidal data based on long-term observations, allowing mariners to plan voyages, anchoring, and...

A warning, given by the helmsman, that he is about to gybe

The standing end refers to the part of a rope or line that is not actively being used or manipulated during a task or operation. It is typically the part of the rope that is secured or fixed in place. It is the opposite of the Working End.

The section of rope between the standing end and a knot being made.

The fixed lines, wires, or rods that support a sailboat's mast and keep it upright and stable. Standing rigging is a critical component of a sailboat's structure, providing the necessary support to ensure the mast remains securely in place under the various forces exerted by the wind and sails. Unlike running rigging, which is adjusted...

To head away from shore