Glossary

A sheltered body of water where vessels can anchor or dock, offering protection from the elements, often also where ports are, providing...

The highest level of sea water that can be predicted to occur under average meteorological conditions and under any combination of astronomical...

An opening in the deck or bulkhead of a vessel, typically covered by a door or lid, providing access to the space below.

A hatch is a crucial...

The International Maritime Signal Flag Hotel.

Meaning

I have a pilot on board.

Used in satellite navigation and positioning systems to quantify the accuracy of horizontal position measurements. It is a unitless factor that...

Head (heads) refers to the toilet or bathroom on a boat. The heads on a boat may be equipped with a marine toilet designed to safely handle waste...

The direction in which a vessel's bow is pointed at any given moment, typically measured in degrees relative to true north or magnetic...

A coastal landform characterised by a high, narrow piece of land that juts out into the sea, often forming a prominent point along the...

A headsail is a sail set forward of the mast on a sailboat. It is typically smaller than the mainsail and is used to help propel the boat forward...

Sea area of the Met Office Shipping Forecast. Covers waters around the Hebridean islands off western Scotland.

Covering the Hebridean...

Tilt or lean to one side, typically due to wind pressure on a sailing vessel's sails.

The term "heel" is widely used in recreational and...

The vertical distance from the water's surface at Mean High Water Springs to the focal plane of a lighthouse's light source.

Height of Light...

The vertical distance between the water's surface at any given time and the established chart datum, typically the lowest astronomical...

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