An object used as a reference point while navigating.

A warning from aloft (heads up).

The degree to which all the forces on a boat are symmetrical so the vessel sails with just a slight weather helm.

To windward, in the direction of the eye of the wind; toward the wind; in the direction from which the wind is coming

To stand at the mast and pull down on a halyard as another crewmate winches it in.

Equipment used for serving meals.

A naval rank next below that of lieutenant-commander, which is next below that of captain (the equivalent of commander).

A life-threatening condition where there is loss of body heat; the greatest danger for anyone in the water. As the body loses its heat, body functions slow down, and this can quickly lead to death.

A boat is double banked, when two oars, one opposite the other, are pulled by men seated on the same thwart.

To watch a vessel at anchor at the turn of tides, and cast her by the helm, and some sail if necessary, so as to keep turns out of her cables.

To leave a ship without authority (deserting).

Intimate mixture of oil and water, generally of a milky or cloudy appearance. Emulsions may be of two types: oil-in water (where water is the continuous phase) and water-in-oil (where water is the discontinuous phase).

Gross tonnage is the basis on which manning rules and safety regulations are applied, and registration fees are reckoned. Port fees are also often reckoned on the basis of GT and NT. GT and NT are defined according to formulas which take account, among ot ...

A tiller or a wheel generally installed on the bridge or wheelhouse of a ship to turn the rudder during manoeuvering and navigation. It is in fact the steering wheel of the ship.

Maintains and monitors radio, sends and receives messages. Often maintains electronic navigation. Latest replaced with certified GO (Deck officer)

A document prepared by the captain of a vessel on arriving at port; shows conditions encountered during voyage, generally for the purpose of relieving ship owner of any loss to cargo and shifting responsibility for reimbursement to the insurance company.

Sling of various types used for lifting vehicles on to and off general cargo ship.s

A fabric, usually synthetic, used to make sails.

A rope net to catch the jib when it is lowered.

(1) To adjust the sails for best advantage. (2) Fore and aft balance of a boat. If either the bow or stern is depressed, the vessel is said to be down by the bow or down by the stern. (3) To trim is to adjust. It does not just apply to sheets. You can tri ...