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10 Nautical and Sailing Terms You Need to Know

Sunrise Sail • Sep 02, 2022
Learning to Sail

Sailing is a unique and exhilarating experience, but it can also be somewhat confusing if you're unfamiliar with the vocabulary. If you want to learn to sail, it's important to familiarize yourself with the common sailing terms used in the industry. Here are ten common nautical and sailing terms that every sailor should know. 


Aft

Aft is a versatile term that can be used to describe the back end of a boat and is used when giving directions. For example, if someone is standing at the aft of the boat and facing forward, they would be facing the bow. Aft can also be used to describe the position of an object on a boat; for example, the aft deck is the back portion of the deck area.


Bow

The front of the boat. This is the most important part of the boat, as it is responsible for cutting through the water. The bow is also where the sails are attached. To go faster, sailors often attach a second sail to the bow. This allows them to "catch more wind," and as a result, they can travel much faster than they would be able to with just one sail.


The term "bow" can also refer to the person sitting in the front of the boat. This person is responsible for steering the boat and ensuring it stays on course. The bow also refers to the direction in which the wind is blowing. If the wind is blowing from the bow, it is said to be a "headwind." 


Port

The left side of the ship when facing forward. This term can be confusing for beginners, as it is the opposite of what would be considered port in aviation or other forms of transportation. The term port comes from the Latin word "porta," meaning gate or entryway. In medieval times, ships entering harbors had to tie up at the quays on the left side of the river to avoid docking fees. 


Eventually, this arrangement became standard practice, and the term port came to be used more generally to refer to the ship's left side. Even though most ships are now equipped with GPS and other modern navigational aids, knowing your port from your starboard is still essential to being a successful sailor.


Sailing Lake Lanier

Starboard

The right side of a vessel when facing forward. The word derives from the Old English "steorbord," which means "rudder board." In modern times, the term is used to describe the direction in which a vessel should be steered. For example, if a captain wants to turn the ship to the right, they would give the order to "turn starboard." Because starboard is such an important part of sailing terminology, it is one of the first things new sailors learn.


Run

A downwind course or a course with the wind blowing from behind the boat. This can be difficult to sail, as it requires the boat to be balanced carefully to avoid capsizing. In addition, the sails must be trimmed correctly to provide maximum thrust. However, although a run can be challenging, it can also be exhilarating as the boat speeds through the water. For this reason, many sailors enjoy sailing on a run, despite the extra effort required.


Windward/Leeward

The direction of the wind relative to the boat. If the wind is blowing from the side of the boat towards the front, it is said to be "windward." If the wind is blowing from the side of the boat towards the back, it is said to be "leeward." These terms describe both the wind's direction and the boat's position relative to that wind. For example, if a boat is sailing with the wind at its back (leeward), it is said to be "running before the wind." Conversely, if a boat is sailing into the wind (windward), it is said to be "beating against the wind."


Sailing Lessons

Rudder

A vertical fin that is attached to the stern of a boat. The rudder steers the boat by deflecting water flow and producing a force that turns the hull in the desired direction. In most boats, the rudder is controlled by a tiller or wheel located at the helm station. The size and shape of the rudder can vary depending on the type of boat, but all rudders serve the same basic purpose. Rudders are an essential part of any vessel and are critical for safe navigation.


Keel

A central beam in a ship's hull runs from the bow to the stern. It provides support and stability for the vessel and helps counter wind and waves' effects. In addition, the keel helps to protect the ship's hull from damage when it rubs against docks or other objects. The term "keel" can also refer to the lowest point of a ship's hull, which is often submerged in water. This area is susceptible to damage from rocks or other underwater obstacles, so it is important to keep an eye on it while sailing.


Tacking

A maneuver used when sailing into the wind. The boat is turned so that the wind blows across the front, or bow, of the boat. Tacking moves the boat forward at an angle to the wind. When the boat has reached the other side or leeward side, it is turned again so that the wind blows from the back (or stern). Tacking allows a sailing vessel to make progress even when the wind is blowing directly against it. 


Jibing

A sailing maneuver in which a boat turns its bow through the wind, from one side to the other. The maneuver is often used to change direction or avoid obstacles. In order to jibe, the sails must be trimmed properly, and the helm must be turned into the wind. The boat will then turn away from the wind, and the sails will fill with air on the opposite side. Jibing can be dangerous if not done properly, as the boat can become unstable and capsize. For this reason, it is important to practice jibing in safe conditions before attempting it in rougher waters.



Looking for Sailing Lessons Near You? Contact SunRise Sailing Club Today!

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting out, it never hurts to brush up on your nautical and sailing terms. Don't know them all? Looking for sailing lessons in Georgia? Don't fret! Contact SunRise Sail today to get started! We offer beginner through advanced classes, so everyone can learn how to sail like a pro.


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