Talking the Talk: Sailing Lingo Every Sailor Should Know

Don’t just sail—speak the language. Master key nautical terms before you hit the water.

Sailing isn’t just a sport or a way to travel—it’s a world of its own, full of colorful language rooted in centuries of maritime tradition. If you’re new to sailing, some of the vocabulary might feel like a foreign language. Why is left called “port”? What exactly is a “boom vang”? And how do you know which way is windward?

At Nautical Know How, we help demystify the world of sailing for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Below, we’ll break down some of the most common sailing terms so you can feel confident and capable on the water.

Port vs. Starboard

Sailors never say “left” or “right” when referring to direction on a boat—they use:

A quick tip: “Port” and “left” both have four letters, and port is marked with red, while starboard is green.

Bow and Stern

These terms help you give and follow directions without confusion—no matter which way the boat is facing.

Windward and Leeward

Understanding wind direction is essential for sailing—and knowing these terms helps you react appropriately.

Sails and Rigging

You’ll also hear about halyards (used to raise sails) and sheets (used to control them). Oddly enough, most ropes are called “lines”—except for the bell rope, which is, in fact, a rope.

Common Onboard Terms

Sailing Maneuvers

These maneuvers require teamwork and timing—knowing what they mean helps you stay ready to assist.

Everyday Expressions from Sailing

You might already use sailing phrases without realising it:

Safety Terms to Know

Understanding these calls ensures you respond appropriately in critical moments.

Where to Learn More

At Nautical Know How, we provide clear, approachable resources to help you build your confidence on the water. Whether you’re asking:

You’ll find the answers in our easy-to-navigate online platform. Our courses, glossaries, and guides make learning fun and practical—perfect for beginners or those looking to brush up their skills.

⚓ Ask SailBot Anything—It’s Got Your Stern Covered

Learning sailing lingo is just the beginning—and we get it, some terms still leave you scratching your head. That’s why at Nautical Know How, we’ve made it easy to ask questions in plain English—no need to memorise all the jargon right away.

“What’s the metal rail thingy at the front of the boat called?”

Don’t worry—SailBot knows.

Our friendly AI assistant, SailBot, is always online, always ready, and completely judgement-free. Trained extensively, it can help whether you’re puzzling over the difference between a jib and a genoa, or unsure if you’re using “starboard” correctly. Just ask in plain English—and get a clear, fast answer.

Because out here, there’s no such thing as a silly question—only smart sailors who ask.

So go on—ask away. SailBot’s on watch, 24/7. ⛵💬

Try these to get you going:

And remember: Nautical Know How is always here to help you navigate the journey.

Fair winds and following seas!