Sailing Terminology

Before mastering that actual act of sailing a person must first learn the terminology that is related to this sport. There are many terms that need to be learned. Knowing the proper terminology will help you when you are actually sailing. It will also help you better understand anyone else you talk to who also enjoys sailing.

The first part of the terminology that should be learned refers to the actual parts of the sailboat. Starboard is a term that refers to the right of the boat when facing towards the front of the ship. Port is the term that refers to the left when facing forwards on the sailboat. The terms forward or fore are the terms used for the front of the ship. Aft is the term that is used for the rearward section.

The hull is the bottom section of the boat that sits in the water. The term for the front of the hull is called the bow. Likewise, stern is the what the rear of the hull is referred as. The beam is the widest part of the ship.

The masts have their own set of terminology too. The mast is the vertical pole that supports the sails, rigging, and other parts of the ship that rises into the air. The masts are also referred to as the vertical spars.

The boom is the part of the mast that holds the sail at an angle. If the boom is able to hit a sailor, when being moved, it is called a horizontal spar. If the mast is unable to hit a sailor it is then called a pole. The mast is called a gaff when it is too high to be reached by any sailor on the ship.

Ropes also have their own set of terminology too. If the raw material is still in a large section that has not been determined a use it is called rope. However, once a purpose for the section of rope has been determined it is then called a line. If the rope, or line, is very thick it is called a cable.