Glossary

The position or direction at right angles to the centreline or keel of a vessel, typically on either side of the boat.

Abeam describes...

The area or direction behind a vessel, towards the stern.

Astern is a nautical term used to describe both a direction and a movement in...

The widest part of a vessel, measured at its broadest point across the hull.

The term beam is a fundamental concept in nautical terminology,...

The forward part of a vessel, designed to cut through the water and reduce resistance.

The bow of a vessel is its frontmost section, typically...

An enclosed space on a boat or ship that provides shelter and accommodation for passengers or crew.

A cabin on a boat or ship is a designated...

A type of multihulled vessel featuring two parallel hulls of equal size, connected by a deck or framework, offering stability, speed, and...

The lower aft corner of a sail, where the foot and leech meet, and is often equipped with a grommet or cringle for attaching control lines such...

A set of steps or a ladder leading from one deck of a vessel to another, often enclosed by a hatch or housing. 

A companionway is an essential...

A type of plough anchor renowned for its hinged shank and ability to reset itself effectively in various seabed conditions.

The CQR...

A type of plough anchor renowned for its hinged shank and ability to reset itself effectively in various seabed conditions.

The CQR...

The part of an anchor where the shank meets the arms, forming the base from which the flukes extend.

The crown controls how the anchor sits...

The weight of the water a vessel displaces when it is floating, which is equal to the vessel's own weight.

Displacement is a fundamental...

A type of watercraft designed to move through the water by displacing an amount of water equal to its own weight, relying on buoyancy and...

A downhaul is a line or tackle to apply downward tension on a sail or spar to control its shape and optimise performance.

The downhaul is an...

The flat, triangular blade or arm of an anchor designed to dig into the seabed and provide holding power.

The term "fluke" in a marine context...

The forward part of a vessel's deck, located towards the bow and often used for anchoring, mooring, or storage.

The foredeck is a critical...

The section of a vessel that is located towards the bow, or front, of the ship.

Forward refers to the area or direction towards the bow...

The kitchen or cooking area on a ship or boat, typically compact and designed for efficient use of space.

Unlike a kitchen in a house, the...

A specialised resin-based coating applied to the surface of fibreglass boats to provide a smooth, durable, and protective outer layer.

Gelcoat...

To steer or direct a vessel using its helm or steering apparatus. The apparatus or position used to steer and control a vessel, typically...