It is always great to have adventure in life. And one of the so many things you can do is sailing. Most of the people are making this as their hobby. If you are one of them or just happened to join in a sailing vessel, it would be of great help for you to understand some sailing terms. You do not need to be a sailor to enjoy the sailing world. You do not even have to buy your own sailing yacht to enjoy the fun. All you need is to learn things about sailing.

Just like knowing the sailing gear you need to bring, it is also a must for you to learn the different parts of your sailing vessel.

• Bow. This is the front of the vessel.
• Stern. The back of the boat.
• Port Side. This is found on your left as you look towards the bow.
• Starboard. This is the other side of the port side which happens to be on your right.
• Hull. The body of the boat.
• Keel. This is a vertical fin attached to the hull that makes your boat stable.
• Cockpit. This is where the crew sits or stands to operate the boat.
• Tiller. A stick to aid steering.
• Some Terms Use in Sailing

Now that you know the different parts of the sailing vessel, here is a glossary of sailing terms that could help you getting into the loop.

Surfing. If you are aware of surfing, this is relatively the same. Surfing in sailing means you use a wave to propel yourself forward.

Tacking. This means changing direction from one side of wind to the other while you are sailing towards the wind.

Gybing. This is the other way around. Here, the stern of the boat is crossing through the wind.

Rigging. This is the adjustable lines that are used to control and lower the sails.

All above Board. This simply means above the deck or in plain view which further means not hiding anything.

Mainsail. This is the larger sail. You can find this behind the mast.

Broaching. Stopping the boat in the water when it is overpowered and the wind turned it over, that is broaching.

The Headstay. It is a line of wire or sometimes a steel rod. This supports the mast and adjusts the bend.

“Aye! Aye!” Captain. The term “Aye” simply means that you understand what has been ordered or instructed to you and you will carry it out.

It is good to learn technical and non technical sailing terms. At least you will not be left behind when you join the sailing activity.