Glossary Archive

The act of releasing a vessel's mooring lines in a controlled manner, allowing it to depart from a berth or dock without assistance from shore personnel. Slipped lines describe both the action and the result of releasing a vessel from its moorings. When a vessel is ready to depart from a dock, quay, or pontoon,...

A sloped structure or ramp leading into the water, used for launching, retrieving, or repairing boats and ships.  A slipway, also known as a boat ramp, is an essential feature of many harbours, marinas, and waterfronts, designed to facilitate the movement of vessels between land and water. Typically constructed from concrete, timber, or stone, the...

A small to mid-sized sailboat larger than a dinghy, with one mast bearing a main sail and head sail.

Gap between two sails.

Electronic navigation standards for commercial vessels less than 24m . Equipment meeting the requirements of this performance standard is accepted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as a suitable arrangement which satisfies the chart carriage requirements stipulated within SOLAS Chapter V/19 for vessels for which MGN 319 (as amended) applies. This standard is not accepted...

A set of internationally agreed-upon phrases used to ensure clear, concise, and unambiguous communication at sea, particularly between vessels and shore stations. Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) were developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance safety at sea by reducing the risk of misunderstandings caused by language barriers. They provide a structured and...

Jerk caused by too short an anchor cable in a seaway; To take a turn quickly around a cleat, bollard or Samson post

To prepare for heavy weather by securing all loose gear

The actual velocity of a vessel relative to the Earth's surface, accounting for the effects of currents, tides, and other environmental factors.  Speed Over Ground (SOG) is a critical navigational term in maritime operations, representing the true speed at which a vessel moves over the Earth's surface. Unlike Speed Through Water (STW), which measures the...

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...