Comprehensive Nautical Terminology Guide
Basic Yacht Parts
Hull
The main body of the yacht that sits in the water.
- Bow - Front of the yacht
- Stern - Back of the yacht
- Port - Left side when facing forward
- Starboard - Right side when facing forward
Rigging
The system of ropes, cables, and chains that support the mast and sails.
- Mast - Vertical pole supporting sails
- Boom - Horizontal pole extending from mast
- Shrouds - Supporting cables for mast
- Sheets - Ropes controlling sails
Sailing Terms
Points of Sail
- Close Hauled - Sailing as close to wind as possible
- Beam Reach - Wind at 90 degrees to boat
- Broad Reach - Wind behind the beam
- Running - Sailing directly downwind
Maneuvering
- Tacking - Turning bow through wind
- Gybing - Turning stern through wind
- Heeling - Leaning of boat due to wind
- Luffing - Sails flapping in wind
Navigation Terms
Direction
- Heading - Direction boat is pointing
- Bearing - Direction to object
- Course - Intended path of travel
- Leeway - Sideways drift due to wind
Depth & Position
- Draft - Depth of boat below water
- Knot - Speed of one nautical mile per hour
- Latitude - North/South position
- Longitude - East/West position
Safety Terms
Emergency
- Mayday - Life-threatening emergency
- Pan-Pan - Urgent situation
- Man Overboard - Person in water
- Abandon Ship - Leave vessel immediately
Equipment
- EPIRB - Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
- PLB - Personal Locator Beacon
- VHF - Very High Frequency radio
- DSC - Digital Selective Calling
Test Your Knowledge
Quick Quiz
What is the difference between 'port' and 'starboard'?
Port is the left side of the yacht when facing forward, while starboard is the right side. These terms are used instead of left and right to avoid confusion.
What does 'tacking' mean in sailing?
Tacking is the maneuver where a yacht turns its bow through the wind to change direction. This is done when sailing upwind.
