SailingJoy.com
the one stop resource directory for all your boating needs.Marine Glossary Terms
Learn marine and sailing terms quickly by searching through the information available below.
Aback : Condition in which the sail is on the windward side. Such setup reduces the speed of the vessel
Abaft : Towards the stern
Abaft the beam : Further behind than the beam. A bearing between the beam and the stern
Abeam : On the beam; at right angles to the ship's keel
About : Across the wind; changing direction across the wind
Above board : Above the deck, visible, open and in plain view
Above deck : On the deck
Abyss : The deepest parts of the ocean
Admeasurement : The official measurements of a vessel recorded in its documentation
Admiral : One of the highest naval ranks
Admiralty Law : Also known as maritime law and "the law of the sea". The law that governs the way ships operate and do commerce .
Admiralty mile : Nautical mile
Adrift : Floating freely without a direction and any means of control (sail, oars, engine, etc.)
Afloat : Floating freely (moving, not stuck)
Aft : Near or toward the stern
Aground : A condition when the hull is touching the bottom and the vessel maneuverability is very limited
Ahoy : A call to draw attention
Ahull : Lying adrift when strong winds are present (with sails down)
