Boating Terminology

Front

Straight out amidship at a right angle to the keel.

Back

Abeam

Front

The bottom of the vessel is touching the ground.

Back

Aground

Front

While facing forward, it is the middle of the vessel or ship.

Back

Amidship

Front

An object that holds a vessel in place.

Back

Anchor

Front

The 360 points (degrees) on a compass that show direction.

Back

Bearing

Front

The front or forward part of the vessel.

Back

Bow

Front

Plate on the inside of the vessel giving the limits of horsepower, weight, and occupancy.

Back

Capacity Plate

Front

Green in color, odd numbered on the port (left) side as read from the sea.

Back

Can Buoy

Front

To turn the vessel over.

Back

Capsize

Front

The four main points of a compass; north, south, east, and west.

Back

Cardinal Points