Boating terms seem to be language on it’s own. It is going to require quite a bit of studying to know all these terms but it is well worth the effort and in the end be to your advantage. To be a successful sailor you have to know the boating terms by heart. The knowledge also increases the safety awareness once you go sailing. These terms include directions, boat numberings and the meaning of the words generally used by sailors.
The first boating terms you need to know are starboard (when facing the front it is situated on the right side of the vessel), stern (the back section), bow (which is the front section) and port ( which is on the left side). Once you have familiarized yourself with those basic terms and definitions you will at least know which side of the boat you’re on. The boating term used for the physical structure of the boat is called the hull. Situated at the bottom of the hull and smack bang in the centre is the keel. It is also known in boating terms as the foundation of the boat because it strengthens the structure significantly.
The rudder is the ‘steering wheel ‘of the boat and to turn the rudder you have to use a handle that is attached to it that is called a tiller. The compartment on the boat that is either used by crew or passengers is of course the cabin. If the shelter happens to be only a tiny space it is called a cuddy. In boating terms the long pole attached to the mast onto which the sail is fastened is called the boom. The mast of course is the long pole situated near the center of the boat. Buoys are those bobbing markers found on the water to aid the sailors in navigation. You will find them in different colors.
The Language Only Sailors Use
If you hear the words ‘fore and aft’ they are talking about a line that runs parallel to the keel. Sea cock is a valve placed in the hull to drain water between the interior of the boat and the sea and when stand-on vessel is bawled out you know that the boat has the right of way to overtake another at a meeting.’ Abaft ‘is the term used to describe a situation where all problems are left behind. In that you can get lost and reach new heights in personal growth.
Leave a Reply