Beginner’s Glossary of Yacht Terms
Stepping into the world of yachting can feel like entering a whole new language. “Port or starboard?”, “What does it mean to weigh anchor?” If these sound confusing, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This glossary is designed to be your quick and fun guide to the most essential terms, so you can set sail with confidence.
A
Ashore / Afloat → When the yacht departs from the dock. Adventure starts here.
Alongside → When one vessel comes alongside another or the pier.
B
Beam → The side of the yacht. Beam lights are red and green to show direction at night.
Bollard → A strong post on the dock or deck to tie ropes.
C
Reef → Reducing the sail size in strong winds.
Life Buoy → Classic safety ring you throw into the water.
D
Rudder → The yacht’s steering blade. “Who’s at the helm?” is always crucial!
Anchor → To secure the yacht by dropping the anchor.
E
Heave to → Slowing or stopping the yacht against the wind.
ETA → Estimated Time of Arrival.
F
Let go anchor → Command to drop the anchor.
Storm → Powerful winds—every sailor’s challenge.
G
Topmast → The middle section of a mast on classic sailing ships.
Gulet → A traditional Turkish wooden yacht, especially popular in the Aegean and Mediterranean.
H
Rope / Line → The most loyal tool on a yacht.
Heave-ho → The chant when pulling ropes together.
I
Port → Left-hand side of the yacht.
Sheet → The ropes that control the sails.
K
Stern → The back of the yacht.
Captain → The ultimate authority on board.
L
Harbor → A safe place for ships.
Slack → To loosen a rope.
M
Breakwater → A wall protecting the harbor from waves.
Mizzen mast → The rearmost mast on a multi-masted sailing vessel.
N
Freight → Fee for transporting cargo.
Shipshape → Clean, tidy, organized.
O
Keel → The backbone of the yacht.
Close-hauled → Sailing as close to the wind as possible.
P
Bow → The front of the yacht.
Stern → The back of the yacht.
R
Quay → Structure where vessels moor.
Course → The intended direction.
S
Starboard → The right-hand side of the yacht.
Bilge → The lowest part of the yacht where water often collects.
T
Trim → The balance of the yacht.
Astern → Moving backward.
U
Fender → Inflatable bumpers to protect from collisions.
Port of Call → Ports visited during a voyage.
V
Weigh anchor → Command to lift the anchor.
Watch → Duty shifts on board.
Y
Sail → The cloth that catches the wind.
Roll → The yacht rocking side to side.
Z
Chain Locker → Where anchor chains are stored.
Officer → Crew member under the captain.
The language of sailors can seem tricky at first—but with these essentials, you’ll no longer mix up port and starboard, and you’ll know what to do when someone yells “weigh anchor!” The more time you spend at sea, the more natural these terms will feel.
Remember: every voyage brings a new word, and every breeze brings a new experience. Now, take the helm, catch the wind, and enjoy the sea!
