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Cable

A strong, heavy rope or wire, often made of steel, used for mooring, anchoring, or towing vessels.

A cable refers to a thick, durable line, traditionally made from natural fibres like hemp but now more commonly constructed from steel or synthetic materials. Cables are essential in various operations aboard ships, including anchoring, mooring, and towing. One of the most common uses of a cable is in the anchor system, where it connects the anchor to the vessel, providing the necessary strength to hold the ship in place against wind, currents, and tides. Cables are also used in towing operations, where one vessel pulls another, often over long distances. In modern times, steel wire cables have largely replaced traditional fibre ropes due to their superior strength and durability. Additionally, in nautical terminology, the term “cable” can also refer to a specific unit of measurement, known as a “cable length,” which is approximately 1/10th of a nautical mile, or about 185.2 metres. This unit is commonly used to estimate short distances at sea, particularly when navigating in confined waters or when anchoring. The versatility and strength of cables make them indispensable in the safe and effective operation of vessels.

Alternative Meanings:
  • Cable

    A unit of distance traditionally used to measure short distances at sea. It is generally considered one-tenth of a nautical mile, which equals approximately 185.2 meters or 100 fathoms.

    The length of a cable can vary depending on the standard used. In the British Navy, a cable is traditionally defined as 1/10th of a nautical mile (185.2 meters). In other contexts, mainly historical or regional, a cable's length could range from 169 to 220 meters, though this variation is less common in modern usage.