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
- General Nautical Terminology Halyard
A halyard is a line to hoist or lower a sail, flag, or spar on a boat.
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The term "halyard" comes from the phrase "haul yard," which refers to the... - General Nautical Terminology Harbour
A harbour is a sheltered body of water where ships, boats, and other watercraft can anchor or dock safely. Harbours are typically protected from...
More Details - General Nautical Terminology, Navigation Heading
The direction in which a vessel's bow is pointed at any given moment, typically measured in degrees relative to true north or magnetic...
More Details - General Nautical Terminology Heave To More Details
- Knot Hitch
A hitch is a knot that attaches a rope to an object, such as a post, ring, or other rope.
A hitch is a versatile and essential knot where...
More Details - Organisation HMCG
The organisation responsible for search and rescue operations in UK waters.
His Majesty's Coastguard (HMCG) is a section of...
More Details - Phonetic Alphabet Hotel
Phonetic alphabet letter H.
In marine terminology, the "Hotel" flag from the International Code of Signals has specific meanings:
"I have a...
More Details - General Nautical Terminology, Weather (Meteorology) Hurricane Force
Beaufort Scale - Force 12 (Hurricane Force 12)
Hurricane-force is a term used to describe wind speeds equal to or greater than 64 knots (74...
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