Question 1

What is the difference between port and starboard?

Accepted Answer

Port is the left side of the boat when facing forward toward the bow. Starboard is the right side. An easy way to remember: PORT and LEFT both have four letters. Port navigation lights are red; starboard navigation lights are green.

Question 2

What does 'bearing away' mean in sailing?

Accepted Answer

Bearing away means turning the bow of the boat away from the wind, moving to a broader point of sail — for example from close-hauled to a reach, or from a reach to a run. The opposite is heading up, which means turning toward the wind.

Question 3

What is the difference between a halyard and a sheet?

Accepted Answer

A halyard is used to hoist a sail up the mast — it runs vertically. A sheet controls the angle and trim of a sail — it adjusts the sail's position relative to the wind. A helpful memory: Halyards Hoist, Sheets Shape.

Question 4

What does 'heaving to' mean?

Accepted Answer

Heaving to is a technique for stopping or nearly stopping a sailing vessel in heavy weather. You tack the boat without releasing the jib sheet (leaving the jib backed against the wind), ease the mainsheet, and put the helm to leeward. The boat settles at 40-60 degrees to the wind and fore-reaches slowly, creating a stable, comfortable position for resting crew, making repairs, or waiting out a storm.

Question 5

What is a nautical mile?

Accepted Answer

A nautical mile is 1,852 meters (6,076 feet) — slightly longer than a statute mile (5,280 feet). It equals one minute of latitude on the earth's surface, which makes it directly useful for chart navigation. Boat speed is measured in knots, where one knot equals one nautical mile per hour.