Maritime Vocabulary 1

Front

Bearing

Back

The direction of an object from the observer, usually measured in degrees.

Front

Heading

Back

The direction a ship is pointed at any given moment.

Front

Course

Back

The intended direction of travel of the vessel.

Front

Position

Back

The geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the vessel.

Front

Turning Circle

Back

The path followed by a vessel when making a complete 360° turn.

Front

Helm Orders

Back

Commands given to change the direction of the ship (e.g., “Hard to starboard,” “Midships”).

Front

Dead Slow Ahead

Back

A command to move the ship at its slowest speed forward.

Front

Astern

Back

Moving the ship backward.

Front

Port and Starboard

Back

Left and right sides of the vessel, respectively.

Front

Pilotage Waters

Back

The area within which a pilot is required to assist in navigation.