Usual and accustomed speed.

A flat bottomed, blunt nosed dinghy (or small boat).

A rotating device, with two or more blades, that acts as a screw in propelling a vessel. Sometimes called a screw.

To lower, sink deeper.

Lights required to be shown on boats underway between sundown and sunup.

To calculate your position using time, the position of celestial bodies, and mathematical tables. Position is determined by measuring the apparent altitude of one of these objects above the horizon using a sextant and recording the times of these sighting ...

A general term for provisions, materials and supplies used aboard ship for the maintenance of the crew, and for the navigation, propulsion and upkeep of the vessel and its equipment.

To luff or luff up is to head into the wind, causing sails to flutter.

A metal pin by which the plating and other parts of iron and steel vessels are joined. Rivets are known by their heads, such as: Flush, pan, snap, plug, tap, countersunk, mushroom, and swollen neck.

A painted stripe along the waterline delineating the topside from the bottom paint

The general preparation of a vessel to make ready for the sea in all respects.

Used to describe a light that blinks on and off, where the period of light is shorter than the period of darkness separating the flashes.

Former name for the equipment of a vessel, and included the personnel.

An individual with specific knowledge of a harbor, canal, river or other waterway, qualified to guide vessels through the region. Some areas require that boats and ships be piloted by a licensed pilot.

The mark stencilled in and painted on a ship's side, designated by a circle and horizontal lines to mark the highest permissible load water lines under different conditions.

Abbreviation for "Inland Point Intermodal." Refers to inland points (non-ports) that can be served by carriers on a through bill of lading.

A certificate issued as a result of an examination of competency and experience. Some refer to their USCG license as their ticket

To fill in the seams with cotton or oakum.

Compartment for the storage of oil or other fuel.

A warehouse authorized by Customs to receive duty-free merchandise.