Gunwale: The upper edge of the side of the boat where the hull
folds over into the deck.
Hatch: An opening in the deck to provide access below.
Head: Toilet.
Hull: The part of the ship from the deck down. The hull forms the
shape of a boat’s bottom exterior.
Inboard: In the direction of the boat’s middle or interior.
Keel: The lowest point of a boat and backbone of a vessel. The keel
line runs bow to stern, centered along the boat’s hull.
Knots: A measurement of speed indicating nautical miles per hour.
Lee: The side opposite that from which the wind is blowing - the side
sheltered from the wind.
Leeward: Towards the lee side of your vessel.
Make Fast: To secure a line.
Mayday: A radio distress call.
Nautical Mile: A distance of 6,076 feet or 1852 meters, which is
15% longer than a statute mile and is equivalent to one minute of
latitude on a navigational chart.
Outboard: In the direction of the water, over the side of a boat; can
also refer to a propulsion system that hangs over the gunwale.
11-3
Glossary & Index
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