Boating Glossary of Terms | Discover Boating Boating Glossary Of Terms Boating Glossary of Terms | Discover Boating A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z aerate To force air and oxygen into livewells to keep fish or bait alive. Also, to force air under the running surface of a hull. aft The rear of the boat. aft cabin Sleeping quarters beneath the aft or rear section of the boat (sometimes called a mid cabin when located beneath the helm). alee The side of a boat or object away from the direction of the wind. aloft Above deck in the rigging. aluminum fish boat Small, lightweight, durable trailerboat constructed of aluminum that is either welded or riveted; generally used for freshwater fishing. amidships Center section of a boat. anchorage A location intended or suited for anchoring. anti-fouling paint A special paint applied to a boat's hull to prevent marine growth. apparent wind The direction and velocity of wind as felt in a moving boat. astern The direction toward or beyond the stern. athwart Perpendicular to a boat's centerline aweigh An anchor that is off the bottom.

axle ratio The relationship of revolutions of a tow vehicle's axle to that of its driveshaft or transaxle, e.g. 2.74:1. backing down Maneuvering in reverse when offshore fishing while attempting to land a fish. backstay A support for the mast to keep it from falling forward. bail To remove water with a bucket or pump. Also, a component that controls fishing line on a spinning reel. bait station Area on a fishing boat for preparing bait. baitwell Compartment on a fishing boat for holding live bait, usually with a pump to circulate the water and an aerator to provide oxygen. ballast Weight added to the bottom of a boat to improve stability. bass boat Low-profile, outboard-powered boat, generally no more than 22 feet long and typically equipped with rod lockers, casting decks with pedestal seats and livewells. bay boat Low-profile, inshore fishing boat intended for use in protected coastal waters, and frequently made with rolled-edge construction. beach catamaran Small, lightweight sailboat less than 25 feet long that can be easily launched and retrieved from a beach. beam Measurement of a boat at its widest point.

Also, a transmitted radio, sonar or radar signal. bear off To turn away from the wind. bearing A place to sleep aboard a boat. Also, a boat slip. bilge Lowest section inside a boat's hull where water collects. bimini top A canvas cover over the helm or cockpit area. bitt Vertical post extending above the deck to secure docking lines. bluewater fishing boat Mid-size to large deep-V boats suitable for offshore fishing. They are typically fitted with outriggers, fish boxes, aluminum towers, a host of electronics and large fuel tanks. boom A spar attached to a sail at its foot. bow Forward portion of a boat. bow eye A stainless steel U-bolt on a boat's bow stem used to secure tow lines or trailer winch hooks. bow stop Rubber blocks on a boat trailer into which the boat's stem rests. bowrider A runabout boat with open-bow seating. bowsprit A spar extending forward of the bow on a sailboat. breakaway lanyard Emergency safety cable on a boat trailer that activates trailer brakes in the event the trailer comes detached from the tow vehicle while underway. bridge clearance Distance from waterline to a boat's highest point.

bulkhead Transverse wall in a boat that usually bears weight and supplies hull support. bunks Long carpeted sections of a boat trailer that support the boat's weight. buoy An anchored floating object that serves as a navigation aid. Also used to mark a mooring spot. burgee Small flag that bears a yacht club's symbol. camber Cylindrical navigation buoy with a flat top, generally green in color. capsize To flip a boat over. capstan A winch used for hauling heavy objects such as anchors. cast off To unfasten all lines in preparation for departure. casting platform Elevated deck clear of obstruction used by anglers to make casts, often equipped with pedestal chairs. catamaran A twin hulled boat, either power or sail. catboat Small, simple sailboat with one mast and sail set far forward. cavitation Inefficient low-pressure pockets on propellers form bubbles that collapse against the blades resulting in premature wear. center console boat Fishing boat with the helm station located amidships for maximum walk-through space around the perimeter of the boat. centerboard A keel-like pivoting device, typically in a trunk, that can be lowered or raised to act as a keel. channel The navigable portion of a waterway.

chart plotter Electronic navigation device that displays charts for use in plotting a course. chart recorder An electronic depth sounder that records bottom structure data on paper. charts Paper or electronic navigation maps. chine Portion of the hull where the bottom and sides intersect (can be rounded or angled). chopped fiberglass Fiberglass strands cut and simultaneoulsy mixed with resin by and applied to a boat mold by using a chopper gun. chumming Placing fish or fish parts in the water to attract gamefish. class I hitch Trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity up to 2,000 pounds; available as a bumper mount, step bumper or bumper/frame mount. class II hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. class III hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. class IV hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. cleat Hardware piece on a boat or a dock to which lines are attached. clew The after-most corner of a sail. close-hauled Sailing as close to the wind as possible.

coaming A raised edge, as around the cockpit or around a hatchway, to keep water out. Coast Guard safety package Basic safety gear required by federal law consisting of personal flotation device, throwable flotation device, visible distress signals, fire extinguisher and a horn, whistle or bell. cockpit Deck space for the crew of a boat, typically recessed. COLREGS Coast Guard term for the navigation rules of the road; full name is International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. come about To tack or change heading relative to the wind. companionway Entryway from the deck to the belowdeck cabin area. convertible A bluewater fishing boat typically more than 35 feet long with a full cruising salon, a fish-fighting cockpit and many other saltwater fishing features. coring material Any of a variety of lightweight materials used between layers of fiberglass laminates to add strength. Corinthian The act of two propellers spinning in opposite directions on a single shaft. coupler Component on a boat trailer that connects to the hitchball. course Direction in which a boat is steered. cruiser A boat with overnight accommodations. cuddy cabin Belowdecks accommodations in the bow area for overnighting and stowage.

cure Hardening process for resin-soaked fiberglass laminates. curtains Attachable front and side enclosures that protect the helm area from weather. cutter Single-masted sailboat similar to a sloop, but with the mast farther aft to allow for a double headsail. daggerboard A keel-like device that is manually raised and lowered vertically without using a hinge. davit A small crane used to hoist a boat or dinghy or other object. day sailing To go sailing for a few hours on a small, open sailboat. daysailer Small, open sailboat sometimes raced or short-distanced cruised, primarily used for recreational sailing. dead ahead Directly ahead of the bow. deadrise Degrees of V-shape hull angle measured at the transom of planing powerboats. deck boat Blunt-bowed power boat generally characterized by an open deck and generous passenger seating. deep-V A hull shape characterized by a sharp deadrise, typically more than 20 degrees. depth sounder Electronic sonar device that displays water depth. deviation The amount of error from displaying magnetic north in a boat's compass caused by the boat's own magnetic interference.

differential GPS (DGPS) A highly accurate global positioning system (GPS) that utilizes a differential radio beacon and receiver to compute and correct the error of all visible satellites sending data to a conventional GPS unit. dinette A small dining area usually consisting of a table and facing bench seats; it can often be converted into a berth. dinghy A small sailboat often raced that can be sailed on and off a beach. Also a tender, either rowed or equipped with power, used to go to and from a larger vessel. direct drive An engine configuration in which the drive shaft runs in a straight driveline through the bottom of the hull. displacement The weight of water displaced by a hull. Also, a type of hull that smoothly displaces water as opposed to riding on top of it. displacement hull A hull shape designed to run through water rather than on top of it in the manner of a planing hull. downrigger A gunwale-mounted weighted line device used for deep-water trolling. draft Vertical distance a boat penetrates the water. drogue Weight of the boat without fuel and fresh water. dual-console boat A type of boat with twin dashboards separated by a centerline walk-through deck leading to the bow.

EPIRB Acronym for emergency positioning indicating radio beacon. When this electronic device is activated it transmits a radio signal with user registration data and positioning information to a network of satellites that assist the Coast Guard in conducting an emergency rescue. express cruiser A cruising boat without a deck-level salon. Sometimes called a sunbridge cruiser. fathom Nautical depth measurement equaling six feet. fender A cylindrical or round cushion used to protect the hull sides of a boat, typically used when tied up at dock. fetch To clear a buoy, point of land or object without having to make a tack. fiberglass Glass fibers either loose or woven, reinforced with resin and used in the construction of many boats. fighting chair A fix-mounted chair used to help land large gamefish on bluewater fishing boats equipped with a footrest, gimbal-mounted rod holder, safety harness and other fish-fighting gear. fin keel A keel shaped like the fin of a fish that is shorter and deeper than a full-length keel. fishfinder Electronic device that uses sonar to locate and display fish on a monitor. fix The position of a boat recorded in coordinates or bearings. flare A pyrotechnic device used to indicate distress.

Also, the outward curvature of the sides on the bow of a boat. flat-bottom boat Type of boat or hull shape with very little or no deadrise. flats boat Type of small, inshore saltwater fishing boat with moderate deadrise and draft, usually equipped with a raised platform aft used by a guide pushing a long pole to silently maneuver the boat through shallow tidal water. flying bridge Raised, second-story helm station, often located above the primary helm. following sea Wave pattern running in the same direction as the boat. foot The bottom edge of a sail. fore Located at the front of a boat. foredeck Forward part of the main deck, ahead of the superstructure. foul-weather gear Jacket, pants and hat used during inclement weather. founder To sink. four-cycle engine A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine that takes four cycles or strokes of the piston to complete its power phase. Also called four-stroke engine. frame-mount hitch Hitch fastened to the frame of a tow vehicle. freeboard Vertical distance between the waterline and the top of the hull side. furling Rolling or folding a sail on its boom. gaff A metal pole with a hooked end used to boat a fish.

Also a pole or spar that holds the upper portion of a four-sided sail. galley The kitchen area on a boat. gelcoat A combination of resin and pigment that comprises the smooth outside coating of a fiberglass boat. genoa Another name for a gas- or disel-powered electric generator. give way Yield to other traffic. GPS Acronym for global positioning system, a satellite-based navigation system that uses trasmitted signals and mathematical triangulation to pinpoint location. gross axle weight rating (GAWR) The maximum weight an axle is designed to carry. gross combined weight rating (GCWR) The maximum allowable weight of a fully loaded tow vehicle plus its fully loaded trailer, including passengers and cargo. gross trailer weight rating (GTWR) The maximum allowable weight of trailer and its cargo. gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) The maximum allowable weight of a fully equipped tow vehicle including passengers and cargo. gunkhole To explore creeks, coves marshes or other shallow areas near shore. gunwale The upper edge of the side of a boat. gybe Also spelled jibe. To change the course of a boat so that the boom swings over to the opposite side. halyard Line used to hoist a spar or sail.

harbor master The person at a harbor in charge of anchorages, berths and harbor traffic. hard chine A sharp-angle at the intersection of the hull's side and bottom. hard over Turning the steering wheel or tiller all the way in one direction. hard-top A large fiberglass roof or platform over the helm area. hatch To lift a boat from the water. hawse pipe Fittings in the deck or gunwale through which the anchor rode or dock lines run. head Toilet facilities or room where they are located. head seas Waves coming from the direction a boat is heading. heading The direction a boat is pointed. headsail Any sail set forward of the mast. headway Forward motion of a boat in the water. heave To pull on a line. Also to throw a line. heaving to Setting the sails so the boat makes little headway, either used in a storm or a waiting situation. heel To temporarily tip or lean to one side. helm Area of a boat where operational controls are located. high-performance boat A type of boat capable of running at high speeds, often equipped with high-horsepower and exotic propulsion systems, sometimes used for racing.

hike To lean out on the windward side of a sailboat to achieve optimal speed by offsetting heeling. hitch Steel framework on a tow vehicle used to hook up a trailer. hitch ball The ball-shaped component of the hitch that fits into the trailer coupler. holding tank Storage tank for gray water. houseboat A large, flat-bottom boat with square sides and house-like characteristics, such as comfortable furniture and living accommodations. hull The structural body of the boat that rests in the water. inboard engine An internal combustion engine often mounted amidships that runs a drive shaft through the hull bottom. inboard/outboard (I/O) Capable of being inflated either with air, as in a life raft or life vest. inflatable boat A type of boat with air chambers into which air is pumped either manually or automatically for buoyancy, some having rigid bottoms. inner liner Smooth-finished, molded fiberglass structure adjacent to the inside portion of the hull. inverter Device that changes 12-, 24- or 32-volt direct current (DC) from a battery to 120-volt alternating current (AC).

jack plate A mounting device for an outboard motor that enables operators to vertically raise or lower the motor, thereby controlling propeller depth in the water. jet boat A boat powered by an engine with a water-pump used to create propulsion. jib Triangular sail projecting ahead of the mast. jibe The bottom-most portion or longitudinal centerline of a hull. ketch A sailboat similar in appearance to a yawl with a tall main mast and a shorter mizzen mast ahead of the rudder post. kicker motor A small auxiliary outboard motor. kill switch A switch with a lanyard that automatically shuts off an engine if disconnected. kite fishing A technique that involves attaching a fishing line to a kite to present bait at a distance from the boat. knot Speed measured in nautical miles per hour. laminate A single layer of material used in multi-layered fiberglass construction. lamination schedule A list of the sequential layers of materials used in fiberglass construction. latitude Geographic distance north or south of the equator expressed in degrees and minutes. leaning post Wide, padded bolster at the helm used instead of or in lieu of conventional seats. lee Direction toward which the wind blows. lee side The side of an object that is sheltered from the wind.

leeway To slip sideways downwind while moving forward. lifeline Safety lines on deck that are grabbed to prevent falling overboard. list A continuous lean to one side due to improper weight distribution. livewell Compartment on a fishing boat designed to keep fish or bait alive. LOA Length overall; the distance between the most forward part of the boat and the most aft part. locker A stowage compartment, whether equipped with a lock or not. longitude Geographic distance east or west of the prime meridian expressed in degrees and minutes. Loran C Electronic navigation system that measures the time difference in the reception of radio signals from land-based transmitters. luff The leading edge of a sail. mainsail The largest regular sail on a sailboat. make fast A large, luxurious yacht, typically longer than 100 feet midships Location near the center of a boat. mizzen mast A shorter mast located aft of the main mast on a yawl or ketch. modified-V hull A modification of the deep-V hull shape with a deadrise of less than 20 degrees.

mold A hollow reinforced cavity that is the mirror-image or reverse-image of the boat and into which fiberglass, gel coat and resin are laid during composite-hull construction. monohull A boat with a single hull. mooring Permanent ground tackle fixed to a buoy that boats can tie to. motorsailer A hybrid boat that has sails and powerful engines. motoryacht A large powerboat greater than 40 feet with luxurious interior accommodations for long-range cruising. multihull A boat with more than one hull, such as a catamaran or trimaran. nautical mile A distance of 6,076.12 feet or 1,852 meters, which is about 15 percent longer than a statute mile. Equivalent to one minute of latitude on a navigation chart. nun buoy Conical navigation buoy that is usually red. outboard bracket Support device for mounting outboard engines that extends aft of the transom. outboard motor Internal combustion engine mounted at the transom that incorporates motor, driveshaft and propeller. outdrive The lower unit of a stern-drive motor that houses the drive gears and to which the propeller fastens.

outrigger Poles designed to spread out fishing lines and keep them from tangling while trolling. overboard Over the side of a boat and into the water. personal flotation device (PFD) A safety vest or jacket capable of keeping an individual afloat. personal watercraft (PWC) A small, lightweight craft designed to be either sat-on or stood-on with motorcycle-like handlebars and squeeze throttle, usually jet-propelled. piling A post driven into the ground below the waterline to support a pier, dock, etc. pilot house A fully enclosed helm compartment. pitch Theoretical distance a propeller would travel in one revolution. Also, the rise and fall of a boat's bow and stern. planing hull A boat hull designed to ride on top of the water rather than plowing through it. pleasure boating Recreational day boating in runabouts, deck boats, pontoon boats, bowriders and sportboats. plot To plan a navigation course using a chart. poling platform Small elevated stand on a flats boat used by a fisherman to silently pole through shallow water and scout for fish. pontoon boat A type of boat with a flat deck attached to airtight flotation tubes or logs.

port The left side of a boat when facing the bow. Also, a marina harbor or commercial dock. power catamaran A multihulled powerboat with two identical side-by-side hulls. power cruiser A powerboat with overnight accommodations, typically up to 40 feet long. propeller A rotating multi-blade device that propels a boat through the water. pulpit Forward deck and railing structure at the bow of a boat. PWC The after side of a boat from amidships to stern. quartering The practice of aiming the boat's bow at a 45-degree angle to oncoming waves. quarters Living and sleeping areas of a vessel. racer A sailboat designed primarily for speed and competition with a minimum of built-in creature comforts. racer/cruiser A fast sailboat designed with comfortable accommodations. radar Electronic device using high frequency radio waves to detect objects and display their positions on a monitor. range Distance a boat can travel at cruising speed on a tank of fuel. Also, the distance to an object. Lastly, in intracoastal navigation, a set of two markers that, when lined up one behind the other, indicate the deepest part of the channel. reach To sail across the wind.

ready about Last warning given by a helmsman before tacking and turning the bow into the wind, notifying the crew that the boom and sail will cross the boat. receiver box Part of a hitch that receives and holds the hitch bar or shank. receiver hitch A hitch with a receiver from which a hitch bar or shank can be removed. resin Liquid substance used in fiberglass composite construction that, when combined with a catalyst, bonds laminate materials together. reverse chine A chine that angles downward from the hull designed to direct spray out and awayfrom the boat. RIB (rigid inflatable boat) An inflatable boat fitted with a rigid bottom. rigging Wire cables, rods, lines, hardware and other equipment that support and control the mast and spars. rocket launcher A device designed for a fishing boat that bolts to the cockpit floor or is incorporated into a bench seat, to hold multiple fishing rods. rod holder Device designed to safely and securely hold fishing rods either vertically or horizontally. rode Line, chain, cable or any combination of these used to connect the anchor to the boat.

rolled-edge skiff A fishing boat designed to run in coastal waters constructed of a simple, one-piece fiberglass hull without a top deck and characterized by rounded top edges without true gunwales. roller trailer A trailer outfitted with rollers instead of bunks. rubrail Protective outer bumper that runs around the boat at the point where the top deck meets the hull. rudder Underwater fin mounted below the hull near the stern that controls boat steering. runabout A kind of small, lightweight, freshwater pleasurecraft intended for day use. running lights Required navigation lights that a vessel uses at night to indicate position and status. running rigging Lines used in the setting and trimming of sails. safety chains Legally mandated chains that connect the trailer to the tow vehicle as a safety measure in case the coupler detaches. safety harness A harness worn by a boater attached to the boat with a tether to reduce the chances of going overboard. sag To slide or drift off course. sail plan Arrangement of sails on a boat. sailboat A boat that is at least partially propelled by capturing the force of wind in sails.

salon Full-sized, well-appointed cabin on the main deck level of a motoryacht, convertible or megayacht used for entertaining. saltwater fishing boat Any fishing boat used in the ocean or coastal waters that's specially equipped to handle the harsh saltwater environment. schooner A large sailboat with two or more masts where the foremast is shorter than aft mainmast. scope The ratio of anchor rode to vertical depth. scud To run before the wind in bad weather. scuppers Gravity fed drain in a boat to allow water to drain out and overboard. scuttle To cut holes or open ports to purposely let water in to make a boat sink. scuttlebutt Gossip. So named after a water cask around which sailors used to gather and drink. sea anchor A canvas, cone-shaped device deployed to keep the bow headed into the wind to help safely ride out a storm. Also called a drogue. sea cock Through-hull fitting with a valve between the interior and the exterior of the boat. seaworthy Ability to handle rough weather. Also called sea-kindly. sedan cruiser A type of large boat equipped with a salon and a raised helm or bridge.

selective availability Intentional degradation of GPS signal used for position fixing by the U.S. Department of Defense for purposes of national security. With selective availability turned on, positions can be fixed to about 300 meters. With selective availability turned off, positions can be fixed to about 100 meters. self-bailing Drains water overboard automatically. semi-displacement hull A hull shape with soft chines or a rounded bottom that enables the boat to achieve minimal planing characteristics. sheer Line of the deck or gunwale from bow to stern as viewed from outside the boat. sheet Line used to trim a sail. shroud Mast support rigging, usually a wire, that runs from the mast to the side of the boat. side console A dash-panel unit affixed to the side of a boat. If only one, helm controls are affixed to it. skeg A fin or vertical projection below the hull that provides directional stability. Also, a fin-like projection at the bottom of an outboard. skiff A small, simple, shallow-draft boat. skiing/wakeboarding boat Low profile, pleasure boats with minimal deadrise specifically designed for waterskiing and/or wakeboarding.

These boats are usually characterized by an inboard engine and a towing pylon. Wakeboard boats are often equipped with a tower or extremely tall pylon to fasten the tow line in a manner to aid vertical jumping and water-ballast devices to increase the weight of the boat. slip A boat berth between two piers or floats. Also, the slight loss of efficient power delivery as a propeller spins in the water. sloop A single-masted sailboat in which the mast is set forward of midships. sole The deck floor. sonar A method to locate objects and determine distance by transmitting sound waves through water and measuring the time it takes the echo to bounce back. Used in depth finders and fishfinders. sounding Masts, booms, gaffs and poles used in sailboat rigging. sportfish A type of bluewater fishing boat with at least two sleeping cabins and many dedicated fish-fighting features. spring line A docking line attached amidships to control fore and aft movement. stand by An order to crewmen to be ready, be prepared. stand on Maintain course and speed. standing rigging The shrouds and stays that support the mast but are not adjusted while working a boat.

starboard The right side of the boat looking toward the bow. stateroom A room with sleeping quarters, a cabin. statute mile Distance of 5,280 feet, the standard measure of distance on land and most inland waterways. stay Wire, rod or other rigging that runs fore and aft of the mast. stem The most forward section of the hull. step Socket that holds the base of the mast. stepped hull A high-performance hull design with lateral notches, or steps, in the keel. stern Aft portion of a boat. stern drive Propulsion system composed of an inboard engine connected to a steerable drive unit extending through a cut-out in the transom. stow To put an object away onboard a boat, to store. strakes Small linear protrusions that run longitudinally on both sides of the keel to give a planing hull lift and lateral stability. stringers Internal beams and braces that give a fiberglass hull structural support. surge brakes Hydraulic trailer brake system activated by the sudden inertia of a trailer pushing against the tow vehicle during a hard stop. swamp To fill a boat with water. sway Side-to-side wandering of a trailer under tow.

swim platform A wide platform at the transom equipped with a ladder to help ease the effort of reboarding after going into the water. T-top Short, aluminum tower with overhead canvas to protect the helm. tack The lower corner of a sail. Also, each leg of a zigzag course. tender A fitting or object that goes all the way through a hull. tiller A bar connected to the rudder and used to steer the boat. tiller handle outboard A small, outboard motor that uses a handle fitted with engine controls to steer instead of a steering wheel. tongue jack Adjustable jack on the trailer tongue that raises and lowers the coupler. tongue weight The measurement of trailer weight when loaded with a boat on the hitch ball. topsides The hull above the waterline. Also, everything above deck as opposed to below deck. tow rating Maximum weight a vehicle is rated to tow. trailer tongue Forward portion of a trailer where the coupler is mounted. trailer winch Device that uses a crank and cable to assist in launching and retrieving a boat. transducer An electronic sensing device mounted in a boat's bilge or at the bottom of the transom to provide data for a depth sounder.

transom The rear section of the hull connecting the two sides. transom shower A plastic hose and shower head located near the transom that draws from a fresh water supply. trawler A pleasure boat more than 25 feet in length with a displacement hull. trim The way a boat floats in relation to the horizon, bow up, bow down or even. Also, to adjust a boat's horizontal running angle by directing the outboard or stern drive's thrust up or down. Also, to set a sail in correct relation to the wind. trim tabs Hydraulically adjusted horizontal plates located on the bottom of the transom that control the trim angle of a boat at speed. trimaran A type of boat with three side-by-side hulls, the center of which is usually larger with crew accommodations. trolling To fish by towing an array of baited lines or lures behind the boat. true wind Direction and velocity of wind as measured on land, distinct from apparent wind. tuna tower Tall aluminum tower used for spotting fish in the distance, often equipped with a second set of helm controls. two-cycle engine A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine that takes two cycles or strokes of the piston to complete its power phase.

Also called two-stroke engine. underway A boat in motion. utility boat A type of small, open powerboat, constructed of either fiberglass or aluminum, with minimal features. These include jon boats, skiffs and work boats. V-berth A bed or berth located in the bow that has a V-shape. V-drive Propulsion system where the drive shaft initially runs forward into a gear box and then runs aft and down through the hull. The driveline forms a V-shape with the gear box at the pivot point. variation Compass variable that accounts for the difference in degrees between true north and magnetic north. ventilation Air introduced into a spinning propeller from the water's surface. VHF Very high frequency; a bandwidth designation commonly used by marine radios. wake Waves created by a moving boat. walkaround A type of offshore fishing boat with a small to mid-size cabin and a perimeter deck that allows easy passage around the entire boat. waterline The intersection of the hull and the surface of the water. waypoint The coordinates of a specific location. weigh Boating Glossary - Take Me Fishing boating laws and more. Boating Glossary Not sure which boating terms you need to know?

Make sure you know your axle ratio from your zinc anodes. Use this helpful a-to-z boating glossary to learn all of the important boating terms and what they mean before you get out on the water. A aerate To force air and oxygen into livewells to keep fish or bait alive. Also, to force air under the running surface of a hull. aft The rear of the boat. aft cabin Sleeping quarters beneath the aft or rear section of the boat (sometimes called a mid cabin when located beneath the helm). alee The side of a boat or object away from the direction of the wind. aloft Above deck in the rigging. aluminum fish boat Small, lightweight, durable trailerboat constructed of aluminum that is either welded or riveted; generally used for freshwater fishing. amidships Center section of a boat. anchorage A location intended or suited for anchoring. anti-fouling paint A special paint applied to a boat's hull to prevent marine growth. apparent wind The direction and velocity of wind as felt in a moving boat. astern The direction toward or beyond the stern. athwart Perpendicular to a boat's centerline. aweigh An anchor that is off the bottom.

axle ratio The relationship of revolutions of a tow vehicle's axle to that of its driveshaft or transaxle, e.g. 2.74:1. B Maneuvering in reverse when offshore fishing while attempting to land a fish. bail To remove water with a bucket or pump. Also, a component that controls fishing line on a spinning reel. bait station Area on a fishing boat for preparing bait. baitwell Compartment on a fishing boat for holding live bait, usually with a pump to circulate the water and an aerator to provide oxygen. ballast Weight added to the bottom of a boat to improve stability. bass boat Low-profile, outboard-powered boat,; generally no more than 22 feet long and typically equipped with rod lockers, casting decks with pedestal seats, and livewells. bay boat Low-profile, inshore fishing boat intended for use in protected coastal waters; frequently made with rolled-edge construction. beach catamaran Small, lightweight sailboat less than 25 feet long that can be easily launched and retrieved from a beach. beam Measurement of a boat at its widest point. Also, a transmitted radio, sonar or radar signal. bear off To turn away from the wind.

bearing A place to sleep aboard a boat. Also, a boat slip. bilge Lowest section inside a boat's hull where water collects. bimini top A canvas cover over the helm or cockpit area. bitt Vertical post extending above the deck to secure docking lines. bluewater fishing boat Mid-size to large deep-V boats suitable for offshore fishing. They are typically fitted with outriggers, fish boxes, aluminum towers, a host of electronics and large fuel tanks. bow Forward portion of a boat. bow eye A stainless steel U-bolt on a boat's bow stem used to secure tow lines or trailer winch hooks. bow stop Rubber blocks on a boat trailer into which the boat;s stem rests. bowrider A runabout boat with open-bow seating. bowsprit A spar extending forward of the bow on a sailboat. breakaway lanyard Emergency safety cable on a boat trailer that activates trailer brakes in the event the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle while underway. bridge clearance Distance from waterline to a boat's highest point. bulkhead Transverse wall in a boat that usually bears weight and supplies hull support. bunks Long carpeted sections of a boat trailer that support the boat's weight.

buoy An anchored floating object that serves as a navigation aid. Also used to mark a mooring spot. C Cylindrical navigation buoy with a flat top, generally green in color. capsize To flip a boat over. capstan A winch used for hauling heavy objects such as anchors. cast off To unfasten all lines in preparation for departure. casting platform Elevated deck clear of obstruction used by anglers to make casts, often equipped with pedestal chairs. catamaran A twin hulled boat, either power or sail. cavitation Inefficient low-pressure pockets on propellers form bubbles that collapse against the blades resulting in premature wear. center console boat Fishing boat with the helm station located amidships for maximum walk-through space around the perimeter of the boat. centerboard A keel-like pivoting device, typically in a trunk, that can be lowered or raised to act as a keel. channel The navigable portion of a waterway. chart plotter Electronic navigation device that displays charts for use in plotting a course. chart recorder An electronic depth sounder that records bottom structure data on paper. charts Paper or electronic navigation maps. chine Portion of the hull where the bottom and sides intersect (can be rounded or angled).

chopped fiberglass Fiberglass strands cut and simultaneously mixed with resin and applied to a boat mold by using a chopper gun. chumming Placing fish or fish parts in the water to attract game fish. class I hitch Trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity up to 2,000 pounds; available as a bumper mount, step bumper or bumper/frame mount. class II hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. class III hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. class IV hitch Frame-mounted trailer hitch with a weight-carrying capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. cleat Hardware on a boat or a dock to which lines are attached. coaming A raised edge, as around the cockpit or a hatchway, to keep water out. Coast Guard safety package Basic safety gear required by federal law consisting of a personal flotation device; a throwable flotation device; visible distress signals; fire extinguisher; and a horn, whistle or bell. cockpit Deck space for the crew of a boat, typically recessed.

COLREGS Coast Guard term for the navigation rules of the road; full name is International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. come about To tack or change heading relative to the wind. companionway Entryway from the deck to the belowdeck cabin area. convertible A bluewater fishing boat typically more than 35 feet long with a full cruising salon, a fish-fighting cockpit and many other saltwater fishing features. coring material Any of a variety of lightweight materials used between layers of fiberglass laminates to add strength. counter rotation The act of two propellers spinning in opposite directions on a single shaft. coupler Component on a boat trailer that connects to the hitch ball. course Direction in which a boat is steered. cruiser A boat with overnight accommodations. cuddy cabin Belowdecks accommodations in the bow area for overnighting and stowage. cure Hardening process for resin-soaked fiberglass laminates. curtains Attachable front and side enclosures that protect the helm area from weather. D A keel-like device that is manually raised and lowered vertically without using a hinge. davit A small crane used to hoist a boat or dinghy or other object. dead ahead Directly ahead of the bow.

deadrise Degrees of V-shape hull angle measured at the transom of planing powerboats. deck boat Blunt-bowed power boat generally characterized by an open deck and generous passenger seating. deep-V A hull shape characterized by a sharp deadrise, typically more than 20 degrees. depth sounder Electronic sonar device that displays water depth. deviation The amount of error from displaying magnetic north in a boat's compass caused by the boat's own magnetic interference. differential GPS (DGPS) A highly accurate global positioning system (GPS) that utilizes a differential radio beacon and receiver to compute and correct the error of all visible satellites sending data to a conventional GPS unit. dinette A small dining area usually consisting of a table and facing bench seats; it can often be converted into a berth. dinghy A small sailboat, often raced, that can be sailed on and off a beach. Also a tender, either rowed or equipped with power, used to go to and from a larger vessel. direct drive An engine configuration in which the driveshaft runs in a straight driveline through the bottom of the hull. displacement The weight of water displaced by a hull.

Also, a type of hull that smoothly displaces water as opposed to riding on top of it. displacement hull A hull shape designed to run through water rather than on top of it in the manner of a planing hull. downrigger A gunwale-mounted weighted line device used for deep-water trolling. draft Vertical distance a boat penetrates the water. drogue Weight of the boat without fuel and fresh water. dual-console boat A type of boat with twin dashboards separated by a centerline walk-through deck leading to the bow. E EPIRB Acronym for emergency positioning indicating radio beacon. When this electronic device is activated, it transmits a radio signal with user registration data and positioning information to a network of satellites that assist the Coast Guard in conducting an emergency rescue. express cruiser A cruising boat without a deck-level salon. Sometimes called a sunbridge cruiser. F Nautical depth measurement equaling six feet. fender A cylindrical or round cushion used to protect the hull sides of a boat, typically used when tied up at dock. fetch To clear a buoy, point of land or object without having to make a tack. fiberglass Glass fibers either loose or woven, reinforced with resin and used in the construction of many boats.

fighting chair A fix-mounted chair used to help land large game fish on bluewater fishing boats equipped with a footrest, gimbal-mounted rod holder, safety harness and other fish-fighting gear. fin keel A keel shaped like the fin of a fish that is shorter and deeper than a full-length keel. fish finder Electronic device that uses sonar to locate and display fish on a monitor. fix The position of a boat recorded in coordinates or bearings. flare A pyrotechnic device used to indicate distress. Also, the outward curvature of the sides on the bow of a boat. flat-bottom boat Type of boat or hull shape with very little or no deadrise. flats boat Type of small, inshore saltwater fishing boat with moderate deadrise and draft, usually equipped with a raised platform aft used by a guide pushing a long pole to silently maneuver the boat through shallow tidal water. flying bridge Raised, second-story helm station, often located above the primary helm. following sea Wave pattern running in the same direction as the boat. fore Located at the front of a boat. foredeck Forward part of the main deck, ahead of the superstructure. foul-weather gear Jacket, pants and hat used during inclement weather.

founder To sink. four-cycle engine A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine that takes four cycles or strokes of the piston to complete its power phase. Also called four-stroke engine. frame-mount hitch Hitch fastened to the frame of a tow vehicle. freeboard Vertical distance between the waterline and the top of the hull side. furling G gaff A metal pole with a hooked end used to boat a fish. Also a pole or spar that holds the upper portion of a four-sided sail. galley The kitchen area on a boat. gelcoat A combination of resin and pigment that comprises the smooth outside coating of a fiberglass boat. genset Another name for a gas- or disel-powered electric generator. give way Yield to other traffic. GPS Acronym for global positioning system, a satellite-based navigation system that uses trasmitted signals and mathematical triangulation to pinpoint location. gross axle weight rating (GAWR) The maximum weight an axle is designed to carry. gross combined weight rating (GCWR) The maximum allowable weight of a fully loaded tow vehicle plus its fully loaded trailer, including passengers and cargo. gross trailer weight rating (GTWR) The maximum allowable weight of trailer and its cargo.

gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) The maximum allowable weight of a fully equipped tow vehicle including passengers and cargo. gunkholing To explore creeks, coves marshes or other shallow areas near shore. gunwale The upper edge of the side of a boat. gybe Also spelled jibe. To change the course of a boat so that the boom swings over to the opposite side. H The person at a harbor in charge of anchorages, berths and harbor traffic. hard chine A sharp angle at the intersection of the hull's side and bottom. hard over Turning the steering wheel or tiller all the way in one direction. hard-top A large fiberglass roof or platform over the helm area. hatch To lift a boat from the water. hawse pipe Fittings in the deck or gunwale through which the anchor rode or dock lines run. head Toilet facilities or room where they are located. head seas Waves coming from the direction a boat is heading. heading The direction a boat is pointed. headway Forward motion of a boat in the water. heave To pull on a line. Also to throw a line.

heaving to Setting the sails so the boat makes little headway, either used in a storm or a waiting situation. heel To temporarily tip or lean to one side. helm Area of a boat where operational controls are located. high-performance boat A type of boat capable of running at high speeds, often equipped with high horsepower and exotic propulsion systems, sometimes used for racing. hitch Steel framework on a tow vehicle used to hook up a trailer. hitch ball The ball-shaped component of the hitch that fits into the trailer coupler. holding tank Storage tank for gray water. houseboat A large, flat-bottom boat with square sides and house-like characteristics, such as comfortable furniture and living accommodations. hull Capable of being inflated either with air, as in a life raft or life vest. inflatable boat A type of boat with air chambers into which air is pumped either manually or automatically for buoyancy, some having rigid bottoms. inner liner Smooth-finished, molded fiberglass structure adjacent to the inside portion of the hull. inverter Device that changes 12-, 24- or 32-volt direct current (DC) from a battery to 120-volt alternating current (AC).

J jack plate A mounting device for an outboard motor that enables operators to vertically raise or lower the motor, thereby controlling propeller depth in the water. jet boat A boat powered by an engine with a water pump used to create propulsion. jibe The bottom-most portion or longitudinal centerline of a hull. kicker motor A small auxiliary outboard motor. kill switch A switch with a lanyard that automatically shuts off an engine if disconnected. kite fishing A technique that involves attaching a fishing line to a kite to present bait at a distance from the boat. knot Speed measured in nautical miles per hour. L A single layer of material used in multi-layered fiberglass construction. latitude Geographic distance north or south of the equator expressed in degrees and minutes. leaning post Wide, padded bolster at the helm used instead of conventional seats. lee Direction toward which the wind blows. lee side The side of an object that is sheltered from the wind. leeway To slip sideways downwind while moving forward. lifeline Safety lines on deck that are grabbed to prevent falling overboard. list A continuous lean to one side due to improper weight distribution. livewell Compartment on a fishing boat designed to keep fish or bait alive.

LOA Length overall; the distance between the most forward part of the boat and the most aft part. locker A stowage compartment, whether equipped with a lock or not. longitude A safety vest or jacket capable of keeping an individual afloat. personal watercraft (PWC) A small, lightweight craft designed for sitting or standing with motorcycle-like handlebars and squeeze throttle, usually jet-propelled. piling A post driven into the ground below the waterline to support a pier, dock, etc. pilot house A fully enclosed helm compartment. pitch Theoretical distance a propeller would travel in one revolution. Also, the rise and fall of a boat's bow and stern. planing hull A boat hull designed to ride on top of the water rather than plowing through it. pleasure boating Recreational day boating in runabouts, deck boats, pontoon boats, bowriders and sportboats. plot To plan a navigation course using a chart. poling platform Small elevated stand on a flats boat used by a fisherman to silently pole through shallow water and scout for fish. pontoon boat A type of boat with a flat deck attached to airtight flotation tubes or logs.

port The left side of a boat when facing the bow. Also, a marina harbor or commercial dock. power catamaran A multihulled powerboat with two identical side-by-side hulls. power cruiser A powerboat with overnight accommodations, typically up to 40 feet long. propeller A rotating multi-blade device that propels a boat through the water. pulpit Forward deck and railing structure at the bow of a boat. PWC The aft side of a boat from amidships to stern. quartering The practice of aiming the boat's bow at a 45-degree angle to oncoming waves. quarters Living and sleeping areas of a vessel. R A sailboat designed primarily for speed and competition with a minimum of built-in creature comforts. racer/cruiser A fast sailboat designed with comfortable accommodations. radar Electronic device using high-frequency radio waves to detect objects and display their positions on a monitor. range Distance a boat can travel at cruising speed on a tank of fuel. Also, the distance to an object. Lastly, in intracoastal navigation, a set of two markers that, when lined up one behind the other, indicate the deepest part of the channel.

receiver box Part of a hitch that receives and holds the hitch bar or shank. receiver hitch A hitch with a receiver from which a hitch bar or shank can be removed. resin Liquid substance used in fiberglass composite construction that, when combined with a catalyst, bonds laminate materials together. reverse chine A chine that angles downward from the hull designed to direct spray out and away from the boat. RIB (rigid inflatable boat) An inflatable boat fitted with a rigid bottom. rocket launcher A device designed for a fishing boat that bolts to the cockpit floor or is incorporated into a bench seat, to hold mulitple fishing rods. rod holder Device designed to safely and securely hold fishing rods either vertically or horizontally. rode Line, chain, cable or any combination of these used to connect the anchor to the boat. rolled-edge skiff A fishing boat designed to run in coastal waters, constructed of a simple, one-piece fiberglass hull without a top deck and characterized by rounded top edges without true gunwales. roller trailer A trailer outfitted with rollers instead of bunks. rubrail Protective outer bumper that runs around the boat at the point where the top deck meets the hull.

rudder Underwater fin mounted below the hull near the stern that controls boat steering. runabout A small, lightweight, freshwater pleasurecraft intended for day use. running lights Required navigation lights that a vessel uses at night to indicate position and status. S safety chains Legally mandated chains that connect the trailer to the tow vehicle as a safety measure in case the coupler detaches. safety harness A harness worn by a boater attached to the boat with a tether to reduce the chances of going overboard. sag To slide or drift off course. salon Full-sized, well-appointed cabin on the main deck level of a motoryacht, convertible or megayacht used for entertaining. saltwater fishing boat Any fishing boat used in the ocean or coastal waters that's specially equipped to handle the harsh saltwater environment. scope The ratio of anchor rode to vertical depth. scud To run before the wind in bad weather. scuppers Gravity fed drain in a boat to allow water to drain out and overboard. scuttle To cut holes or open ports to purposely let water in to make a boat sink. scuttlebutt Gossip. So named after a water cask around which sailors used to gather and drink.

sea anchor A canvas, cone-shaped device deployed to keep the bow headed into the wind to help safely ride out a storm. Also called a drogue. seacock Through-hull fitting with a valve between the interior and the exterior of the boat. seaworthy Ability to handle rough weather. Also called sea-kindly. sedan cruiser A type of large boat equipped with a salon and a raised helm or bridge. selective availability Intentional degradation of GPS signal used for position fixing by the U.S. Department of Defense for purposes of national security. With selective availability turned on, positions can be fixed to about 300 meters. With selective availablity turned off, positions can be fixed to about 100 meters. self-bailing Drains water overboard automatically. semi-displacement hull A hull shape with soft chines or a rounded bottom that enables the boat to achieve minimal planing characteristics. sheer Line of the deck or gunwale from bow to stern as viewed from outside the boat. side console A dash-panel unit affixed to the side of a boat. If only one, helm controls are affixed to it. skeg A fin or vertical projection below the hull that provides directional stability.

Also, a fin-like projection at the bottom of an outboard. skiff A small, simple, shallow-draft boat. skiing/wakeboarding boat Low-profile, pleasure boats with minimal deadrise specifically designed for waterskiing and/or wakeboarding. These boats are usually characterized by an inboard engine and a towing pylon. Wakeboard boats are often equipped with a tower or extremely tall pylon to fasten the tow line in a manner to aid vertical jumping and water-ballast devices to increase the weight of the boat. slip A boat berth between two piers or floats. Also, the slight loss of efficient power delivery as a propeller spins in the water. sole The deck floor. sonar A method to locate objects and determine distance by transmitting sound waves through water and measuring the time it takes the echo to bounce back. Used in depth finders and fish finders. sounding Charted water depth. sportfish A type of bluewater fishing boat with at least two sleeping cabins and many dedicated fish-fighting features. spring line A docking line attached amidships to control fore and aft movement. stand by An order to crew to be ready, be prepared. stand on The right side of the boat looking toward the bow.

stateroom A room with sleeping quarters, a cabin. statute mile Distance of 5,280 feet, the standard measure of distance on land and most inland waterways. stem The most forward section of the hull. stepped hull A high-performance hull design with lateral notches, or steps, in the keel. stern Aft portion of a boat. stern drive Propulsion system composed of an inboard engine connected to a steerable drive unit extending through a cutout in the transom. stow To put an object away onboard a boat, to store. strakes Small linear protrusions that run longitudinally on both sides of the keel to give a planing hull lift and lateral stability. stringers Internal beams and braces that give a fiberglass hull structural support. surge brakes Hydraulic trailer brake system activated by the sudden inertia of a trailer pushing against the tow vehicle during a hard stop. swamp To fill a boat with water. sway Side-to-side wandering of a trailer under tow. swim platform A wide platform at the transom equipped with a ladder to make reboarding easier. T Short, aluminum tower with overhead canvas to protect the helm. tack The lower corner of a sail.

Also, each leg of a zigzag course. tender A fitting or object that goes all the way through a hull. tiller A bar connected to the rudder and used to steer the boat. tiller handle outboard A small, outboard motor that uses a handle fitted with engine controls to steer instead of a steering wheel. tongue jack Adjustable jack on the trailer tongue that raises and lowers the coupler. tongue weight The measurement of trailer weight when loaded with a boat on the hitch ball. topside The hull above the waterline. Also, everything above deck as opposed to below deck. tow rating Maximum weight a vehicle is rated to tow. trailer tongue Forward portion of a trailer where the coupler is mounted. trailer winch Device that uses a crank and cable to assist in launching and retrieving a boat. transducer An electronic sensing device mounted in a boat's bilge or at the bottom of the transom to provide data for a depth sounder. transom The rear section of the hull connecting the two sides. transom shower A plastic hose and shower head located near the transom that draws from a fresh water supply. trawler A pleasure boat more than 25 feet in length with a displacement hull.

trim The way a boat floats in relation to the horizon, bow up, bow down or even. Also, to adjust a boat's horizontal running angle by directing the outboard or stern drive's thrust up or down. Also, to set a sail in correct relation to the wind. trim tabs Hydraulically adjusted horizontal plates located on the bottom of the transom that control the trim angle of a boat at speed. trimaran A type of boat with three side-by-side hulls, the center of which is usually larger with crew accommodations. trolling To fish by towing an array of baited lines or lures behind the boat. true wind Direction and velocity of wind as measured on land, distinct from apparent wind. tuna tower Tall aluminum tower used for spotting fish in the distance, often equipped with a second set of helm controls. two-cycle engine A gasoline- or diesel-powered internal combustion engine that takes two cycles or strokes of the piston to complete its power phase. Also called two-stroke engine. U A boat in motion. utility boat A small, open powerboat, constructed of either fiberglass or aluminum, with minimal features. These include jon boats, skiffs and work boats. V A bed or berth located in the bow that has a V-shape.

V-drive Propulsion system where the drive shaft initially runs forward into a gear box and then runs aft and down through the hull. The driveline forms a V-shape with the gear box at the pivot point. variation Compass variable that accounts for the difference in degrees between true north and magnetic north. ventilation Air introduced into a spinning propeller from the water's surface. VHF Very high frequency; a bandwidth designation commonly used by marine radios. W Waves created by a moving boat. walkaround A type of offshore fishing boat with a small to mid-size cabin and a perimeter deck that allows easy passage around the entire boat. waterline The intersection of the hull and the surface of the water. waypoint The coordinates of a specific location. weigh Nautical terms that refer to hulls and boat construction. Part of the inner stem of a boat. The inner top part. Baseline When you draw a boat from measurements, that is you loft it, a baseline is a straight line from which you start your measurements. Batten Seam In a batten seam the planks (or plywood pieces) are fastened by gluing or screwing to longitudinal battens, which are usually inside the hull.

If the batten connects the side plank and the bottom plank, it is called a chine log. (Its also a stiffening wood or fiberglass piece used inside sails) Another meaning of batten is a long flexible rod used to connect the points when you are lofting. (Drawing out the boat from measurements.) The flexible batten connects the points and fills in the curve smoothly. Beam or breadth (B) is the width of the hull. Bow The FRONT of the boat. Bilge The lowest inner part of a ship's hull. The parts of a vessel between the lowermost floorboards and the bottom, or where the sides curve in to form the bottom. Bilge Water accumulates in the bilge. Breasthook Triangular piece in the bow of a boat. Image is from my Skerry Build BWL The maximum beam at the waterline Bearding Line A line on the side of the sternpost, keel, deadwoods, and stem of a boat that shows where these parts intersect the outer face of the frames. In other words it is where the inside of the planking meets the backbone of the boat, keel, stems etc. Brightwork Usually refers to the wooden parts of a boat that are varnished.

It sometimes also means the metal parts that are polished rather than painted. Bulkhead A bulkhead is an upright wall within the hull of a boat. Bulkheads provide support and usually separate different sections to reduce the risk of flooding. In small boats bulkheads might enclose flotation chambers, or might provide rigidity or support a seat. Camber Decks normally have a slight curvature to assist with drainage and impart stiffness. This is the deck Camber or Crown. Carvel (or Caravel) Planked carvel planking is a method of constructing wooden boats by attaching planks to a frame. The planks butt up edge to edge to each other and form a smooth hull. Caulking is required between the joints. It is a heavier method of boat building than Clinker (Lapstrake). When a boat is built a strong frame is first made then the planks are attached to the frame. Centreboard A shaped plank often made of metal or weighted wood, which can be pivoted into the water to act as a keel to provide resistance to lateral drift and lift, as well as extra stability. When lifted, the centerboard fits into a well in the hull. Chine The edge where 2 plank meet.

The corner formed when 2 planks come together. If a boat is moulded and round shaped it has no chines. If the boat is made from distinct angles as in plywood boats then it has chines. Chined or hard Chined Hulls These are hulls made up of flat panels (commonly made of plywood, or more traditionally with planking) which meet at a sharp angle known as the chine. Grand bank dories are hard chined hulls. Multichine hulls allow a round hull shape to be approximated. Chine Log These are pieces of wood to which the 2 flat edges are attached in a hard chined hull and which strengthen the joints. see Chine Clench Built Made with planks overlapping downwards and fastened with clenched nails (as opposed to carvel-built, with planks flush). Lapstrake (or clinker built) can be secured with clenched nails or with rivets. Nails were driven through the overlapped planks from the outside, the points were then bent back using a chunky rounded iron dolly. The point was driven back into the planks and stayed in securely. Clenching nails were often iron in Viking ships but copper is more common now.

Clevis Pin A pin secured by a cotterpin, a ring, or threaded which is used to close a shackle or other fastening. Clevis pins are common on sailboat rigging. Clinker Built Similar to Lapstrake. When long boards are overlapped then fastened either with clinched nails or with rivets. This kind of boat construction creates long ridges the length of the boat. This adds rigidity and strength to the hull. Viking boats were Clinker built. Carvel planking makes a smooth hull, Clinker has the ridges. Daggerboard A shaped plank which can be lowered into the water to act as a keel to provide resistance to lateral drift and to provide lift. Daggerboards are usually found in sailing dinghies. The cross section shape of the daggerboard can have a significant effect on performance. Experts speak of the NACA foils. Deadrise The amount of V shape in the bottom of a hull. Deadrise is the angle of the bottom measured upward from the horizontal at keel level. The greater the angle of deadrise, the more v shaped the hull is. The smaller the deadrise, the flatter the bottom of the boat.

Its not a constant angle in most boats. Often a boat is more v shaped at the bow and flattens out at the back. The deadrise has implication if the hull is to plane or cut through waves. Displacement Hull Hulls that do not plane are called displacement hulls. Hulls that, once they reach a certain speed, stay on top of the water are called planing hulls. Displacement hulls don't generally go any faster than the theoretical hull speed, which is linked to the length of the boat. Planing hulls can exceed hull speed. Double Ended Is said of a boat that is pointy at both ends such as a canoe or a peapod. To Fair To smooth out. When building a boat great care is taken to smooth out the sides so that curves are smooth and there are no irregularities. This is fairing. Fillet In Stitch and glue boatbuilding, a bead of thickened epoxy is squeezed onto joints to strengthen them. This is a fillet. The process is just about the same as caulking a bathtub. Flare The sides on the hull of a boat sometimes goes outward as it rises. This is flare. When it comes back towards the inside it is tumblehome.

Many old fashioned canoes have tumblehome. Sometimes it is straight up (as in an Optimist). Frame Wooden boat hulls are usually made of planking attached to frames. In carvel type of boatbuilding the frames are quite substantial and heavy and add a great deal of strength to the boat. In Clinker built or Lapstrake the frames are much lighter and sometimes added after the hull is assembled. Freeboard The distance between the water line and the top of the gunwale. Boats designed to be used in quiet water often have very little freeboard such as punts. Boats that typically have to face stronger waves are built with more freeboard, such as dories. Garboard The Board or strake that is immediately next the the keel. The first strake from the bottom. Gudgeon Part of the rudder hardware. Gudgeons have holes in which pintles fit and make a hinge for the rudder to pivot on. Gunwale The upper protective band installed on the top of the sides of the boat. The gunwales are on the outside and often have oarlocks attached to them. Sometimes spelled gunnels.

The inside gunwale is called the inwale Hawsepipe A pipe or moulding in a boats side where the anchor rode fits through the hull. Hawsepipes are not usually found in dinghies and small boats but occasionally sailing yachts have them. Hog A structural board installed on top of the keel to help attach the garboard plank. Hogged A hull deformation which is the opposite of sagging. The hogged keel has a hollow in the middle when the boat is on a flat surface. Sometimes it happens as a wave reaches the middle of the boat and causes it to bend upwards. When permanent it is a defect. Hull Speed The maximum efficient speed of a displacement-hulled vessel. Hull speed increases with the length of the hull. When you see a motor boat with its nose way up in the air it is trying to go faster than its hull speed and a huge amount of energy is wasted keeping the nose in the air. Formula :Hull speed in Knots = 1.34 * LWL^� Inwale The inside part of the Gunwale. The inwale faces the inside of the boat, the outwale faces the outside.

Keel The central beam running the length of the bottom. It can be quite shallow of quite deep. The shape of the keel determines how well a boat can sail into the wind and how well it can turn or track straight. Boats that are intended to be beached often have a very shallow keel. In sailing yatch the keel is often cast iron or lead. In lapstrake the garboard or first board attaches to the keel. The keel is the backbone of wooden boats. It connects to the stem at the front and back of the boat. Keelson The inside part of the keel is the keelson. It helps make the boat more rigid and strengthens the connection of ribs and other parts of the boat to the keel. Knee A piece of wood connecting and supporting two parts roughly at right angles. Knees are often seen supporting seats in canoes and wooden dinghies. Lapstrake Similar to Clinker built. A type of boat construction where long boards (strakes) are overlapped and fastened together along the edge by clinched nails, rivets or glue. Viking boats are a well known example. Lee Board Shaped blades which are used as temporary keels.

Often seen in boats such as Thames river barges. The Lee board is pivoted from the side of a boat rather than the center of the hull as is the daggerboard. Often 2 lee boards are used and lowered as the boat tacks. Lining off The process of projecting the final plank layout onto the hull in boat building LOA Length Overall, is measured from one end (stern or bow) of the hull to the other end along the center line of the hull. Mast Partner A support roughly at the height of the gunwales through which the mast is inserted. The partner supports the mast in its proper position. It can be as simple as a thwart with a hole or can be an elaborate support. The foot of the mast is inserted in the step. Mast Step Cuplike depression or support where the bottom of the mast is inserted when stepped. Usually the mast step is supported by the keelson or keel and has drainage to prevent water from sitting at the base of the mast. Offsets The measurements used to Loft. The offsets are usually presented in the form of a table of numbers, the table of offsets.

The lofter makes a baseline and marks the offset points then joins them with a flexible batten to get a smooth curve. If you look at old books on boatbuilding you will often see a table of numbers mostly too small to see because they have been reduced from the original. These are the offsets. Outwale The outside part of the Gunwales, inside is inwale. Painter A line attached to the front of a boat to tow or moor. Usually used on small boats such as canoes, tenders and dinghies. Pintle A pin shaped metal part attached to a rudder. The pintle fits into gudgeons to attach the rudder to the transom or stern of a boat. Port Sitting in the boat facing the bow, your port side is on the left. Starboard is on the right. Push Pull Rudder A form of rudder tiller that allows the rudder to be controlled from one side or another. The Skerry is built with a push-pull rudder as are many faerings and other scandinavian boats. It keeps the tiller out of the way but requires an adjustment in the steering method at first.

Raked Transom Transoms can have forward or backward angles or be straight up and down rake Another word for angle. Nautical types talk about the rake of the mast, or of the daggerboard. Motorboaters also speak of the rake of the propeller blades. Rubrail In wooden boats a rubrail is a protective piece of wood that is installed somewhat below the gunwale along the side of the boat. In fiberglass boats a rubrail is usually vinyl or other plastic strip installed at the gunwale position to protect the boat from bumping injuries. A boat's bumper strip. Rocker If you put a boat on dry land rocker is what makes it rock forward and back. Boat with a lot of rocker turn easily. Drift boats are built with huge rocker to make them ultra manoeuvrable in rapids and fast water. Rove A small metal plate or washer for a rivet to pass through and be clenched over. Used in lapstrake boat building. Scantling The dimensions or measurements. Scarf A joint in a board or a piece of plywood to make it longer. Usually each side of the board is cut in a long wedge and the 2 sides of the wedge glued together.

This increases the glueline and makes a solid scarf. A ratio of 7 times the width of the scarfed board is considered adequate, longer is better. A scarf can also be secured by rivets as are scarfs in faerings. Sheer If you look at the shape of a boat from the side, The top of the hull often curves up (or rarely down) at the bow and stern. This is sheer. Usually the bow and stern are higher to maximize the freeboard at the bow and stern where the boat meets waves. The curve at the keel level is called rocker. When looking at the boat hull from the side, sheer is the line where the hull meets the gunwale. Skeg A downward or sternward projection from the keel in front of the rudder or in rowboats at the stern. A skeg helps a boat to track straight. A wormshoe is sometimes attached to the sked and provides a replaceable strip to protect the skeg. Spiling The process of measuring a plank to figure out its final shape when on the flat so it can be cut. Sometimes done with a spiling batten. Spelt with only one l.

Stanchion Vertical post near a deck's edge that supports life-lines. A vertical support under a seat. A vertical support that hold oarlocks when the rower is standing up. Starboard When you are in a boat facing the bow, starboard is on the right. When you are sailing and the wind is coming from starboard and your sail is leaning towards port side, you are in a starboard tack and have right of way over a boat on a port tack. Stem The stem connects to the keel and extends it to the front and back. Sometimes the stem is carved and decorated. Stern The back of the boat, bow at the front stern at the back. Strake

Question: What is the name for water that collects in the bottom of a boat?
Answer: bilge