Did you know that scientists have found undeterred evidence of boating, beginning from as early as prehistoric times? In addition to their many finds, knowing that most of the nautical phrases we use today have been passed down over centuries is pretty exciting in itself.
However, besides thinking of it as a fun aspect, it’s also imperative to learn the common boating terms when you’re looking to become a true boater. Case in point, we’re sharing some of the top-used nautical terminologies in this article that drop anchor in our everyday boating speech so you can leave your land-lingo on the shore!
Let’s begin!
1- Bow and Stern
Calling the front and back of your boat just that – “front” and “back” – is inarticulate in boating lingo. Instead, boaters use the word “bow” when referring to a ship’s front end and “stern” when referring to its rear end.
2- Aft and Forward
Moreover, there are specific terminologies used for the bow and stern areas of a boat when navigating the inside of the watercraft. “Aft” refers to the vessel’s stern area, and “forward” means the bow area.
For example, you can say, “Go aft and you’ll find the life jackets inside the container,” or “Go forward and cast a line.”
3- Starboard and Port
It can get confusing when directing someone to stay on the right or left of the boat when sailing in open waters. Therefore, to avoid this confusion, boaters use the term “starboard” instead of “right” and “port” instead of left.
4- Windward and Leeward
“Windward” is referred to as the direction in which the wind is blowing. On the contrary, “leeward” is the direction opposite to the way the wind is blowing.
5- Helm
The “helm” is the area in the boat where the steering is located.
6- Mayday
“Mayday” is an international distress call, and it is used on the water to connect with the people onshore through the radio when you find yourself in a life-threatening situation.
7- Abandon Ship
“Abandon ship” is also a distress call the captain of the ship has to make after advising everyone to put on their PFDs when there’s a need to evacuate the boat that’s in imminent danger.
8- Wake
When a boat is in motion, especially at high speed, it disturbs the water’s surface, creating a column behind it. This is referred to as the “wake.”
9- Capsize
To “capsize” means to flip over. The boat may capsize when the surrounding water is being upset because of a large wake from a passing boat nearby or when you turn your watercraft too sharply.
10- Galley
The boat’s kitchen is referred to as “galley.”
11- Below
When the boat has a lower level connected by a ladder, you say you’re going “below” instead of downstairs.
12- Chart
The coast’s map is always called a “chart,” whether in paper form or displayed on a gadget.
13- Lines
Any kind of rope on the shore is referred to as a “line.”
We hope these common boating terms help you understand and use the nautical speech more clearly on your next trip. Especially when you’re traveling with an experienced boater on board.
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