Glossary
Nautical chart abbreviations are like the secret code of the seas—except instead of buried treasure, they lead to rocks, buoys, and mysterious dashed lines that scream, 'Don’t sail here.' Learning them can feel like cracking a pirate’s encrypted diary, but don’t worry, matey! With clever tools, quirky mnemonics, and a splash of humour, we’ll help you go from 'What’s "FOUL" mean? to confidently navigating the “Wk” wrecks and “Fl G” flashes like a salty sea captain. Think of it as Rosetta Stone, but for avoiding sandbanks!
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TermDefinition
- Courses, RYA Diesel EngineThe RYA Diesel Engine course is a one-day program designed for boat owners and operators who want to maintain and troubleshoot their engines... More Details
- General Nautical Terminology Digital Selective CallingIs the process of sending a digital message using a VHF transmission. It is used to send and listen for distress signals in maritime situations... More Details
- General Nautical Terminology, Safety, Signals & Communication Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
An automated VHF and MF/HF radio communication system used in maritime environments to send distress alerts, establish contact, and exchange...
More Details - General Nautical Terminology, Navigation Dilution of Precision (DOP)
Used in satellite navigation and geolocation to provide the likely accuracy of a satellite-derived position.
The DOP concept is essential to...
More Details - General Nautical Terminology DinghyA type of small boat, often carried or towed as a ship’s boat by a larger vessel. Also small open sailing boats often used for racing and training
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Club RacingThe RYA Dinghy Club Racing course prepares sailors to participate confidently in local club races. The course covers essential skills such as... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Day SailingThe RYA Dinghy Day Sailing course equips sailors with the knowledge and skills to plan and execute safe and enjoyable day trips. The course... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Foiling First FlightsThe RYA Dinghy Foiling First Flights course provides an introduction to the exhilarating world of foiling. Designed for experienced sailors, this... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Foiling Performance FlightsBuilding on the basics, the RYA Dinghy Foiling Performance Flights course refines foiling skills for greater control and speed. Participants... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Foiling Sustained FlightsThe RYA Dinghy Foiling Sustained Flights course is for experienced sailors aiming to master continuous foiling. Participants focus on fine-tuning... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Level 1 - Start SailingThe RYA Dinghy Level 1 course is an introductory program for beginners learning the fundamentals of sailing. Participants practice rigging,... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Level 2 - Basic SkillsThe RYA Dinghy Level 2 course builds on the foundation of Level 1, teaching participants to sail independently. Sailors practice tacking, gybing,... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Level 3 - Better SailingThe RYA Dinghy Level 3 course focuses on refining sailing techniques and building confidence in more challenging conditions. Participants enhance... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Performance SailingThe RYA Dinghy Performance Sailing course is designed for experienced sailors aiming to enhance their racing and technical skills. This advanced... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Regional RacingThe RYA Dinghy Regional Racing course is designed for sailors transitioning to competitive racing at a regional level. Participants learn advanced... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Sailing with SpinnakersThe RYA Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers course introduces sailors to the exciting challenge of spinnaker handling. Participants learn how to rig,... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Seamanship SkillsThe RYA Dinghy Seamanship Skills course focuses on developing practical abilities to handle dinghies in a variety of conditions. Participants... More Details
- Courses, RYA Dinghy Start RacingThe RYA Dinghy Start Racing course is perfect for sailors looking to begin their journey into competitive sailing. This course covers racing... More Details
- General Nautical Terminology Dip the EnsignTo lower the ensign briefly as a salute. It is not re-hoisted until the vessel saluted has dipped and re-hoisted hers in acknowledgement
- General Nautical Terminology Directional LightA light illuminating a sector or very narrow angle and intended to mark a direction to be followed.