sailing yachts meaning

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Sailing Terms Everyone Should Know

By: American Sailing Sailboats

Knowing the right sailing terms to use on board a boat is not JUST a way of sounding super cool and impressing your friends. (Though it works for that, too.) It’s actually very useful, and sometimes crucial in communicating while you’re sailing. Some of the vocabulary used on board boats can sound arcane, which it is! That’s part of what’s fun about it; we’re still using terms that have been used by sailors for hundreds of years. So when you know your terminology, you’re participating in the grand sailing tradition, and you don’t have to say, “Can you hand me that…thing?”

photo by b. cohen

Here are the key sailing terms you’ll want to know as you begin learning to sail !

• Port: Facing forward, this is anything to the left of the boat. When you’re onboard, you can use this term pretty much any time you would normally say “left.” Starboard: Facing forward, this is anything to the right of the boat. Same deal as “port”–only the opposite.
• Bow/Stern: The bow is the front of the boat, the stern is the back. Anything near the front of the boat is referred to as being “forward,” and anything toward the back is “aft” or “astern.”
• Point of Sail: The boat’s direction relative to the wind. For example, if you’re going straight into the wind, your point of sail is called “in irons.” (Note: This isn’t a good place to be!) If the wind is blowing straight over the side of the boat, that’s called a “beam reach.” There are 8 commonly used points of sail, and it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before going out.
• Helm: Where you steer the boat. Usually this is a big wheel, but on smaller boats it can be a tiller, which is basically a long wooden stick. Either of these can be used to control the boat’s rudder.
• Keel: The keel is a long, heavy fin on the bottom of the boat that sticks down into the water. It provides stability and is the reason why modern sailboats are nearly impossible to capsize.
• Heeling: This is the term for when a sailboat leans over in the water, pushed by the wind. There’s nothing else like the thrill of heeling over as your sails fill and your speed picks up!
• Tack: This term has two distinct meanings, both of them very important. As a verb, to tack is to change direction by turning the bow of the boat through the wind. As a noun, your tack is the course you are on relative to the wind. For example, if the wind is blowing over the port side, you are on a port tack. If it’s blowing over the starboard side, you’re on a…you guessed it…starboard tack.
• Jibe: A jibe is another way of changing direction, in which you bring the stern of the boat through the wind. Whether you choose to tack or jibe entirely depends on the situation–what’s around you, and the direction of the wind.
• Windward: The side of the boat closest to the wind. When heeling over, this will always be the high side.
• Leeward: The side of the boat furthest from the wind. When heeling over, this will always be the low side.
• Lines: On board a boat, this is what you say instead of “ropes.”
• Mainsail: The big triangular sail just aft of the sailboat’s mast. As the name suggests, this is the boat’s largest and most important sail. Running along its bottom edge, the mainsail has a thick pole called the boom.
• Jib: The next most common sail on any boat. The jib can always be found forward of the mast, and unlike the mainsail, does not have a boom.

  Getting familiar with these sailing terms is an important step. Not only will you sound like you know what you’re doing, you’ll quickly begin to realize that with the right practice and training, you really DO know what you’re doing!

Try our online sailing term quizzes: Sailing Terms 1 | Sailing Terms 2 | Sailing Terms 3 | Sailing Terms 4

Learning to Sail

• ASA 101: What You’ll Learn ASA 101 is your introduction to Basic Keelboat Sailboat and is your key to a lifetime of sailing.
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• 7 Tips For The Beginning Sailor There are the obvious things you need when you go sailing, sunscreen, a hat, a windbreaker, non-skid shoes, and wind. However, what do you really need to be ready to head out on the water?
• How To Learn To Sail You won’t have to buy a boat or learn a new language or buy a new wardrobe to get a taste for sailing. You can dictate how much you want to experience.
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• What Is Your Role on a Boat? What type of sailor are you and what role do you take on the boat? Your ASA sailing education will prepare you to be a skipper on a sailing vessel and with that comes the responsibility of keeping your crew safe and ensuring the safety of the vessel you are sailing.

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Better Sailing

Sailboat Vs Yacht: What is The Difference?

Many boaters use the terms “sailboat” and “yacht” interchangeably when they are actually quite distinct. A yacht is a larger boat or ship that is used for recreational purposes. The term “yacht” is of Dutch origin, and it was initially described as a small, swift sailing vessel used by the Dutch navy to track down and catch pirates. A boat, on the other hand, is a smaller vessel that can range from a fishing boat to a sailboat in size. So, if you’re interested in this topic, this article will compare yachting with sailing in many ways. Like this, you will have a much better understanding of which option is best for you. Keep reading!

Sailboats and Yachts: Meaning

Firstly, it’s important to understand the meaning of each word. Generally, a boat is a form of watercraft that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. A boat is a watercraft that is small enough to fit on a ship, which is typically less than 1,000 feet long. A ship is a huge vessel with a large carrying capacity that can transport other vessels. The size, shape, and capacity of a boat vary depending on its intended usage. Boats are most commonly employed for navigating places along the water’s edge or inland waterways like lakes and rivers, although they can be utilized on any water source. Boats can be used for a variety of purposes, including providing service to people and vessels on the water, recreational activities, commercial passenger, and cargo transportation across waterways.

So, a sailboat (sailing vessel) is a boat that is propelled primarily by the force of the wind on sails. Keep in mind that the term “boat” can cause some misconceptions about the vessel’s size. People may refer to it as a sailing ship rather than a sailing boat once it reaches a particular size. Also, boats are generally thought to be smaller than ships. A sailboat is a water-borne watercraft whose principal means of propulsion is the wind, which is captured and controlled by triangular-shaped pieces of cloth known as ‘sails.’ On the other hand, a powerboat is a watercraft with an internal combustion engine as its primary source of propulsion.

A yacht is most likely a vessel that is primarily used for personal rather than business purposes. There are yachts that you can hire for a week or more. This might add a little confusion as they are commercially owned but within the hire period, they are used by individuals for leisure purposes. Generally, people usually refer to sailboats as yachts or vice-versa. This is a common phenomenon nowadays, however, there are significantly more sailing yachts than motor yachts at the seaside/marina. If you want to specify a boat that is not largely powered by the wind, use the word motor yacht.

Sailing yachts and motor-powered yachts are the two forms of yachts available today. Yachts range in length from 26 feet to hundreds of feet. A cabin cruiser, or just a cruiser, is a luxury vessel that is less than 39 feet long. A superyacht is typically above 70 feet long. So, what is the definition of a mega yacht? They usually exceed 150 feet in length, but there is no top limit! Note that the world’s largest boat is 728 feet long, or 222 meters.

Let’s now check the main differences between a sailboat and a yacht:

Sails and Motor

The boat may be powered purely by the wind or by one or more inboard or outboard motors, depending on the model. While some larger boats may have very massive engines to provide genuine speed on the water, most yacht engines are far less powerful. Yacht engines are substantially larger, can produce far more power – up to 800hp in some circumstances – and can go many further distances.

If you’re searching for a vessel that’s easier to operate, you could argue that a yacht is a superior option. Sure, the computer components are more complicated, and there is more to manage, but sailing will be simpler. In stormy weather, managing a sail can be tricky. From inside the cabin, you can’t manage your sails. You may, however, operate your yacht from the cabin.

It’s a fact that sailboats will always have sails. After all, it’s their primary source of propulsion. The nail is what propels the boat forward by harnessing the wind. So long as the weather permits, sailing can be done anywhere, at any time. Yachting, on the other hand, has its own set of restrictions. A yacht will usually lack a sail, which can be viewed as a good or negative aspect, depending on your perspective.

The advantage of having a sail over only an engine is that you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel. Fuel is not only costly but also inconvenient and pollutes the environment. When on long voyages, you must always keep an eye on your fuel levels, or you risk breaking down at sea. The great thing with sailboats is that as long as there is wind, a sailboat can sail. If you have an extra sail onboard, you should be alright regardless of what occurs. You have a significantly lower chance of being left stranded at sea.

>>Also Read: Sailboats Vs Powerboats: Why Sailboats are Better

Size Matters

The size difference between a yacht and a sailboat is one of the most significant ones. Most of the time, a sailboat will almost certainly be smaller than a yacht. Of course, some sailboats are larger than others, but if we’re talking about average sizes, a yacht will be larger. The reason that size counts so much when deciding which boat to buy is that the available space is limited. So, if you opt for space note that the larger your boat is, the more space you’ll have. This may seem self-evident, but it is one of the most crucial aspects of your boat to which many people forget to give due consideration.

Generally, when it comes to boats, size will always matter. Except in cases where someone prefers overall better performance and speed. But, keep in mind that almost everything you do will be influenced by the size of your boat. The smaller the boat, the less storage space you have, the less space you have for emergency supplies, and even the less space you have for yourself. Regardless of the size of your boat, your sleeping quarters will most certainly be small. Also, depending on your height, every inch of a room may be crucial.

When there are more people on your boat than just you, size matters the most. If you intend to live alone on your yacht, you will have a significant space advantage. If there are three persons on board, you probably going to need more equipment and devices for cooking or for emergencies. All of this suggests that the sleeping space is the most significant distinction between living alone and living with people. If you live alone on a yacht that can sleep four people in theory, you will have a lot more storage and consequently space.

People on Board

The extent to which the crew will influence your decision is mostly determined by your budget and the size of the vessel you are considering buying. Meaning that if you’re intending to buy a sailboat, you won’t need any crew. Except for your family/friends that live on your boat with you, you basically are the entire crew. However, if you own a yacht, it’s an entirely different scenario.

If you intend to live aboard your yacht, you may require the assistance of one or two crew members. There will be plenty to do even if you are the most essential member of the team, i.e. the captain. This is because you might haven’t already mastered things like navigation, maintenance, plumbing, and engineering. So, a yacht often requires a complete crew to assist with navigation, maintenance, electronics and engineering, repairs, and sometimes even stewards to attend to the passengers.

In other words, having a sailboat means that you can take care of everything yourself. There are only a few computer components that will need to be repaired, and you are unlikely to have an engine. Repairing a sailboat isn’t easy in and of itself; it’s just easier for one person to handle. Meaning that it’s far easier to replace a sail than it is to fix an engine. In bad weather, a small sailboat is just easier to monitor than a large yacht. At the absolute least, another set of eyes will be probably required when sailing with a yacht.

Price also Matters

In general, yachts tend to be more expensive than sailboats. Occasionally, a great deal more. For a variety of factors, the most important of which are materials, design, and construction techniques. Note also that a boat’s price is likely to rise as it becomes more modern. Although this isn’t always the case, it is the vast majority of the time. If money is a key factor in deciding which boat to buy, here’s something to think about: just because a yacht is more expensive doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one. If you have the cash, knowledge, and you know the kind of sailing you will be doing then go for a yacht!

Note also that a sailboat can be outfitted with a variety of amenities and conveniences. But, the sailboat doesn’t always include these features. This will mostly depend on the type of sailboat. As a result, buying a basic sailboat can save you a lot of money. However, most yachts will provide high end amenities. As a result, a motor yacht will cost significantly more than a regular sailboat. Sailboats are also smaller than yachts, which means you have a larger selection of less expensive boats to pick from when making your purchase. But, yachts often start in the six-figure range and can reach millions of dollars depending on the yacht’s size, age, and build quality.

Maintenance and Repairs

Yachts are frequently more expensive to maintain than sailboats. Meaning that boat engines require a great deal of upkeep, and the expense of fuel can be prohibitive for many individuals. For example, did you know that a gallon of diesel fuel in a yacht may only allow you to travel less than 1 nautical mile? If you’re going on a long voyage out to the sea, you can end up spending a lot of money on fuel. A sailboat, on the other hand, can take you wherever you want to go with very little fuel. Bear in mind also that a yacht’s insurance is more expensive than that of a sailboat. One of the main reasons is because it is classified as a yacht.

In addition to the boat’s price there are some other things to consider. The most important one is maintenance and repairs. A boat will always need these and it might need them once per month or once per year. It depends on the kind of repairs and on the way in which you “treat” your boat. Also, if you’re buying a used sailboat, you will need sometimes more research and more money for upgrades. It will be repainted, restored, and upgraded, although it will remain the same size. You should approach buying a boat in the same way that you would with a car. So, according to the size and kind of boat you want to buy, it’s important to keep in mind the price and extra costs as well.

While advanced marine electronics and navigation systems are available on some boats, they are more of a must for yachts. When doing transatlantic voyages, it is critical not only to be able to navigate with precision but also to be able to identify other boats or objects that you may not be able to see, as well as to comprehend your vessel’s performance.

When it comes to technology, it’s not just about whether you’re choosing a sailboat or a yacht. The age of the specific vessel is also something to consider. A sailboat that is more than ten years old may not be as technologically advanced as a brand new sailboat. Better technology can offer a lot of opportunities for you if you decide to buy a yacht. First and foremost, it can make working on your boat much more convenient. There’s no reason you couldn’t work remotely from your boat if you have the ability to set up a functional office with wifi.

Technology also brings up a lot of new possibilities for you when it comes to the act of sailing. A sailboat could traverse the Pacific or Atlantic, but it would be rather difficult. On the other hand, with a yacht, it can be a lot easier. In comparison to a sailboat, your yacht will have advanced navigational systems, warning and guidance systems, and many more safety features.

Sea, Lakes, or Rivers?

Bear in mind that in shallow waters, large yachts are unable to sail. A sailboat is a way to go if you plan on sailing in areas with shallow waters. In the Caribbean, for example, a yacht might be difficult to navigate. At the very least, it’ll be more difficult than sailing. A yacht, on the other hand, may travel to far more places than a sailboat.

A small sailboat might theoretically sail across the Atlantic. However, it can be quite risky, and your boat might not be able to withstand the strong winds and waves. Furthermore, if you’re aboard a sailboat, you can be the only one on board. This means that if the worst happens, far out at sea, there will be no one to aid you. You can do it, of course, but it is risky.

So, smaller boats may normally operate in calmer seas such as lakes, rivers, and shallow harbors. Larger boats, usually between 20 and 30 feet long, can equally navigate rougher ocean seas. A yacht, on the other hand, can sail in deeper ocean waters and handle more choppy seas. Yachts are significantly more ideal for lengthy ocean voyages due to their bigger size, high-tech electronics and guidance equipment, weather protection, and a variety of other characteristics.

>>Also Read: Sailing Vs Boating: Why Sailing Is Better

Sailboat and Yatch Construction

Depending on the anticipated scale of production, sailboat makers can fabricate their own parts or order them. Masts, sails, engines, and metal fittings are common items provided by specialty vendors. Boatbuilders, on the other hand, create their own fiberglass hulls, using Gel coat polyester resin, a catalyst for the resin, woven fiberglass roving, and fiberglass. Wooden hull manufacturers create and shape their own wood in the same way. Note that the main building materials used in boat construction are aluminum, metal, wood, and fiberglass. The unique structure of each material offers a different design and usage as well as additional features to the way in which the boat is built.

Material considerations are important, whether they affect the cost or the durability of the product. Fiberglass, carbon fiber, and metals such as titanium will also be used to construct a boat. On the contrary, a sailboat will most likely be composed of wood or fiberglass. So, in case you value safety and sturdiness above all else, and money isn’t a big issue, a yacht will be significantly safer for you.

The material can also influence the way in which you make repairs. For instance, a wooden boat is much easier to repair than a metal boat. You can make some simple and quick repairs using wood, and they’ll probably last till you get to a marina. To do major repairs on a yacht, you’ll need a lot of specialized equipment and knowledge. Moreover, you may need to ask for a crew member to help you with this.

Sailboat Vs Yacht – Summary

As you can see there are many differences between a sailboat and a yacht. Nowadays many people tend to confuse or don’t be aware of the exact meaning and differences of these vessels, and it’s normal. But, we, as sailors, have to know the differences in order to understand which kind of boat is right for us. For example, if you want big spaces, luxury, or intend to liveaboard then you should opt for a yacht. But, if you want to experience the true joy of sailing, sail anywhere without worrying about polluting the environment or spending too much on fuel, then go for a sailboat! It will entirely depend on your needs and preferences so weigh the pros and cons of each one before making the decision.

In any case, I hope that you have now clarified the differences between these two and that you will make the right choice. I wish you all safe & enjoyable voyages!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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Yacht definitions: What is a yacht? And does it need to have sails?

• Top stories

By far the most common question we get asked here at Motor Boat & Yachting is ‘how can you call that a yacht if it doesn’t have sails?’ Here we explain why a boat doesn’t need sails to be called a yacht...

What’s in a name? Quite a lot if you’re a yacht! Not only are the names of yachts a source of endless amusement, but by defining your boat as a yacht in the first place, you’re setting up certain expectations.

Yacht definitions: A brief history

Whilst boating for fun dates back to Ancient Egypt and possibly even further than that, the word yacht comes from the Dutch ‘jachtschip’, which means hunting ship. Jachts were originally a class of sailboat used in the 16th century to hunt down enemies of the Dutch Republic.

However by the 19th century the term ‘yachting’ had developed to mean recreational boating in general, and with the advent of steam boats, sails were no longer the only method of propulsion available to Victorian yachtsmen.

Article continues below…

World’s largest superyacht: Everything you need to know about 183m REV

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In the early 20th century (1904 to be precise), our humble magazine was launched under its original title The Motor Boat , but by the 1950s the ‘& Yachting’ suffix had been added to refer to the general pastime enjoyed by motorboat owners. We even reviewed the occasional motorsailer for those who liked to enjoy the benefits of both power and sail.

Today’s Motor Boat & Yachting is dedicated purely to powered leisure vessels from 25-125ft with the occasional foray above and below that when interest dictates. Current editor Hugo Andreae insists that he is ‘terminology agnostic’ saying, “I’m not bothered whether people refer to their boats as yachts, cruisers, power boats or gin palaces just so long as they enjoy using them. But for the record my 22ft Karnic is definitely a gigayacht!”

Editor Hugo’s Karnic 2250 is his family’s pride and joy, but should it be called a yacht?

What makes a yacht, a yacht?

Some would argue that a yacht has to have sails, and as we’ve seen, that was originally the case, but we here at Motor Boat & Yachting beg to differ, as its common to refer to large motorboats as motoryachts, superyachts or even megayachts without any expectation that they would have sails.

Others assert that a yacht should have to have a cabin in order for it to be fully considered a yacht, or that it has to measure at least 10m in length. If that’s the case then some longer narrowboats could be technically considered as yachts, although you’d be hard pushed to find anyone who agrees with that definition.

The final test for something to be considered a yacht is harder to pin down, but it is generally accepted that all yachts have to have a certain aesthetic or architectural appeal in order to earn this haughty moniker.

The advent of internal combustion in the 19th Century allowed motor yachts, like this fine example from Camper & Nicholsons, to be launched. Photo: Getty Images

Whether a boat is worthy of being called a yacht is clearly subjective, but there’s one thing we won’t budge over – it certainly doesn’t have to have sails!

If it’s sailing yachts specifically that you’re interested in, you won’t find many of them here, but we can heartily recommend our sister titles Yachting Monthly and Yachting World , who know much more about them than we do.

Bigger yacht definitions: Superyacht, megayacht or gigayacht?

Beyond the simple term yacht, there are a few other yacht definitions worth clarifying. The most commonly used of which is superyacht .

The debate still rages over what constitutes a superyacht. Any pleasure yacht with a load line length of 24m or more (not length overall or waterline length as is often misquoted) and a gross tonnage of 80GT is classified as a Large Yacht under MCA coding rules, causing a number of additional regulations to kick in, most crucially the requirement for the skipper to hold a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate. This is the closest thing to a technical definition of a superyacht.

At 180m Azzam is currently the largest yacht in the world, but an 183m gigayacht called REV is currently under construction in Norway. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

However, while this used to mean most leisure boats with an overall length (LOA) of 80ft or more fell into the Large Yacht category, yards have become so adept at designing bigger boats with a load line length of just under 24m that many craft with an LOA of 90ft or more still count as regular pleasure vessels.

For that reason some people prefer to use the simpler definition of a superyacht being any privately owned vessel with an LOA of 100ft or more. Even then some would argue that a true superyacht should be a custom built yacht of at least 35m or 120ft.

Such is the inflationary pressure on yacht sizes and terminology that the term superyacht itself has begun to lose currency among the yachting elite. Owners of craft over 50m now use the term megayacht to categorise their larger vessels, while the lesser-spotted gigayacht is reserved for yachts over 100m.

Fewer than 100 gigayachts have been built to date, making this the rarest of rare breeds. That said with the world’s largest yacht now measuring over 183m, it’s surely only a matter of time before the 200m mark will be broken and yet another term will be needed. Got any suggestions? Drop us an e-mail: [email protected]

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8 Differences Between Yachting and Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Unless you are very involved in the sailing community or own a boat of your own, you may think of yachting and sailing as similar.

In a lot of ways they are, after all, both are boats and both spend their time at sea. But, that’s about the end of the direct comparison.

Sailboats and yachts are very different, each with their pros and cons. Whether you are just curious about what the differences are, or are wondering because you plan to buy a boat yourself you’re in the right place. This article lists 8 distinct differences between yachting and sailing.

Hopefully, by the end of this article, you will have a much better idea about which might be better for you. After all, yachting/sailing isn’t for everyone.

Table of contents

One of the biggest differences between a yacht and a sailboat is its size. A sailboat is likely to be much smaller than a yacht. Of course, some sailboats can be bigger than some yachts but if we are working on average sizes a yacht is going to be bigger. The reason that size matters so much when it comes to picking which boat you are going to purchase (sailboat or yacht) is space. The bigger your boat, the more space you are going to have. This may sound obvious but is one of the most important factors about your boat that people often fail to give their full consideration.

Size matters (when it comes to boats). Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. The size of your boat will factor into almost every single thing you do, every day. The smaller your boat the less room you have for storage, the less room you have for emergency supplies, the less room you have for storing even yourself. Your sleeping quarters are not likely going to be very big, regardless of how big your boat is. Depending on how tall you are every inch of space could matter. If you are 6 feet tall and your sleeping quarters are only just big enough, or worse, too small. You are in trouble. It may not immediately bother you. You may even be able to trick yourself into thinking that you are fine curled up into a ball whenever you are trying to sleep. You won’t feel this way for long.

Size matters most when there are more people on your boat than just yourself. If you are planning on living on your boat solo you have a huge advantage space-wise. Whether you have 1 person or multiple you will still need the same kit. A watermaker , water storage, food storage, a first aid kit, a fishing rod, etc. You won’t need 3 first aid kits if you have 3 people on board. All of this means the biggest difference between living solo and living with others is the sleeping room. If you are living solo on a boat that can in theory sleep 4, congrats, you now have a whole lot more storage.

Conversely, if you are planning on living on your boat with someone (perhaps your spouse) then space matters even more. Two people need to be able to move about comfortably. Just because your little sailboat can sleep two doesn’t mean two people will be able to live on it comfortably. If there is more than one of you, you may be better off with a yacht.

For the most part, the yachts are going to be more expensive. Sometimes a whole lot more. For a few reasons, mostly material and technology. The more modern a boat is the more expensive it is likely to be. This isn’t always the case, it is for the majority of the time though. If the price is going to play a big part in which boat you choose to buy here is something you may want to consider; just because a yacht can cost more doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get one. If you are on the fence, it is almost always to spend the extra money on something bigger and better.

When you buy a house, it is not uncommon to buy one to fix it up. Making little repairs and upgrades here and there, in some cases even building an extension. This doesn’t work with boats. The boat you buy is the boat you get. Sure, it can be improved. Repainted, renovated, modernized, but for the most part, it will stay the same size. You need to treat buying the boat the same as you would buying a car in this way. You wouldn’t buy a small hatchback and then build another story on it. The size boat you buy is the size boat you are stuck with. If you need more room, you will need another boat. It will work out much cheaper in the long run if you buy one expensive boat than having to buy a second slightly cheaper one because the first wasn’t up to scratch.

How much the crew will factor into your choice largely depends on budget and the size of the vessel you have your eye on. If you are planning on buying a sailboat, you aren’t going to need (or want) any kind of crew. You are the whole crew, except maybe your family/friends if they happen to live on your boat with you. If you have a yacht, however, its a completely different story. If you are planning on living aboard your yacht you may need one or two crew members to help you out. Even if you are fulfilling the most important role (captain), there will still be lots to do. Navigation, maintenance, and engineering may not be your forte.

If you are planning on buying a sailboat, you can handle everything yourself. There are relatively few computer components that will need working on and chances are you won’t have an engine. Repairs to a sailboat are not easy per se, they are just more manageable for one person. Changing a sail is much easier than repairing an engine. In severe conditions, a small sailboat is simply easier to keep an eye on than a huge yacht. A yacht may require, at the very least, another pair of eyes.

4. Whether or not there is a sail

This difference is purely aesthetic for the most part. Whether or not there is a sail. A sailboat, unsurprisingly, will always have a sail. The nail is how the boat harnesses the wind and what drives it forward. Sailing can be done anywhere, anytime, so long as the weather permits it. Yachting, on the other hand, can be far more limiting. A yacht typically won’t have a sail, which can be seen as either a positive or a negative depending on your outlook. Heres why.

If you are looking for a vessel that is easier to handle, you could argue that a yacht would fit those criteria better. Sure, the computer components are a little more complex and there is more to handle, but sailing itself will be easier. If you have to manage a sail, it can be pretty difficult in stormy conditions. You cant control your sails from inside the cabin. You can, however, steer your yacht from the comfort of the inside.

The advantage of having a sail, as opposed to just an engine, is that you don’t need to worry about fuel. Fuel is not only expensive but a real hassle. You must always keep an eye on your fuel levels when making long voyages or else you risk breaking down at sea. A sailboat can sail so long as there is wind. If you have an extra sail onboard, chances are you will be fine no matter what happens. You are much less likely to get stuck at sea.

5. Engine size

Some sailboats do have motors, albeit small ones. It could just be a trolling motor or as big as a 2 stroke. Regardless of what engine size you have, it is never going to be your primary power source. If you have sails you get your power from harnassing the wind. This, again, can be seen as either good or bad. If you have a small engine you have less to worry about. If you only have the most basic mechanical skills and knowhow you will probably be fine.

A yacht, on the other hand, is a whole different beast. If you don’t know how to work on your yacht in the engine room and you break down you are in real trouble. Owning a yacht can be far more complex than owning a sailboat in this regard. If you don’t anticipate learning how to make these repairs yourself, you are going to need to hire someone who will. Its no good just relying on the marina workshop or a local mechanic, if you are at sea there will be no way for them to get to you. Hiring a crew member with good mechanical abilities isn’t going to be cheap. It is a recurring cost you may want to factor into your budget when deciding whether or not a yacht is right for you.

6. Where they can sail

Big yachts cannot sail in shallow waters. If you are planning on sailing in places with shallow, shale filled, waters then a sailboat is the way to go. The Caribbean, for example, can be hard to navigate in a yacht. At least, harder than it would be with a sailing boat. On the other hand, a yacht can go to many more places than a sailboat.

You could, in theory, sail across the Atlantic in a small sailboat . But, would you want to? It is very dangerous and your boat might not hold up to the intense wind and waves. Additionally, if you are on a sailboat you might be the only crew member. This means there will be no one around to help you should the worst come to fruition, far out at sea. It can be done, you can sail across the Atlantic. But you probably shouldn’t.

7. Technology

In regards to technology, not just whether you are choosing a sailboat or a yacht must be given consideration. How old the individual vessel is, is equally important. An older yacht may not be as technologically advanced as a brand new sailboat . If you do choose to buy a yacht, better technology can open a lot of doors for you. First of all, it can make working on your boat a lot easier. If you have the capability of setting up a fully functioning office with wifi there is no reason you couldn’t just work remotely from your boat.

Technology also opens many new routes for you to take regarding the act of sailing itself. You could sail across the Atlantic with a sailboat, but it would be very risky and very difficult. With a yacht, on the other hand, it can be far easier. Your yacht will come equipped with advanced navigational systems, warning and guidance systems, and much more safety features than a sailboat would. A yacht will be able to plot your route from point to point. On a sailboat, you may not have that luxury.

8. Material

Material matters, whether it is affecting the cost or the sturdiness, it is something to consider. A yacht will be made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and metals such as titanium. A sailboat, on the other hand, will likely be made from wood or fiberglass. If you are looking for safety and sturdiness above all, and the price is no problem, a yacht will be far safer for you. On the other hand, a sailboat might have the aesthetic you are looking for. You may want a wooden sailboat specifically because you think it looks better.

The material can also factor into how easy it is for you to make repairs. It is a lot easier to patch up a wooden boat than a metal one. With wood, you can make some cowboy fixes on the fly and they will likely hold up until you make it to port. With a yacht, you will need many special tools and training to make big repairs. Again, you may need to hire a crew member to handle that for you on a yacht.

Hopefully, you now have a pretty good idea about the differences between yachts and sailboats. They each have their pros and cons, and can both offer you a world of excitement and adventure. Which boat would be best for you depends solely on your needs. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to which boat to choose, just go with your gut instinct. Hopefully, this article has made the decision a little easier. At the very least.

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The Only 50 Sailing Terms You'll Need To Know (With Pictures)

Ever get confused by all those odd sailing terms? Starboard, tack, jib… Well, no worries. In this article, I'll go over the most important sailing terms for beginners.

This is a great resource for beginning sailors that need an overview of the most important sailing terms without drowning in it . For a comprehensive list, check out this Wikipedia glossary of nautical terms . There are A LOT of nautical terms there. But no one in his or her right mind will read through that entire page (it has 48.434 words!). There are a lot of obscure words listed that no one really uses anyways. So in this article, I've filtered out the most important ones to get you up to speed quickly. I've also added pictures so you'll know what we're talking about.

Let's jump straight in. For the sake of good manners, I have categorized them by topic. If you are looking for a specific term, just ctrl+f your way directly to it.

Here are the only 50 sailing terms you'll need to know:

Orientation

Parts of the boat, parts related to sails, other terms.

...because it isn't as easy as 'left', 'right', 'front' and 'back'. No, no.

Port is the left side of the boat. It's as simple as that. I'm not entirely sure why don't they just call it 'left' these days. The name came to existence because centuries ago, you always docked your big boat with the harbor (port) being on the left side. And the word stuck with us till today.

Starboard is the right side of the boat. If in a car, you say 'look to your right', on a boat, you say 'look to the starboard'. Again, you might as well just call it 'right'. Oh, wait… you wouldn't seem as cool if you did. Alright, let's keep calling it starboard.

The bow is the front of the boat. The word likely comes from the Middle Dutch 'boech' (nowadays spelled 'boeg'). If you call it 'front' instead, you will get your message across just as well. But it won't get you the admiring looks from those around you.

Stern is the back of the boat. That is where you, as a captain, will spend most of your time. Whether you will force your crew to call it 'stern' or let them use the word 'back', like the dry land creatures they are, is up to you. After all, you are the captain.

The windward side of the boat is the side facing into the wind. So if the wind is coming from the right side, the windward side is on the right. Unlike some of the previous ones, this term actually makes sense - at times you need to talk about a direction not fixed in relation to the boat, but rather relative to the direction of the wind.

Leeward side of the boat is the lee side. If the wind is coming from the right side, the leeward side is on the left. Note that neither windward nor leeward specify the angle of the wind. Thus even if the wind was coming 20 degrees right off of the direction of the boat, so almost from the front, left would still be considered the leeward side.

Since there are gadgets and parts on the boat that you won't see anywhere else, it only makes sense they all have their own special name. You want to know these because unlike the direction terms where you can do with 'left' and 'right', you don't want to call a tiller 'that stick thing back there'.

Helm is the boat's steering wheel. In this case, I forgive those who came up with this name, since it is shorter than 'steering wheel' and thus saves valuable time that we can spend on sailing. Though I doubt linguistic economy was the reason.

Tiller is the long stick that operates your boat's rudder. A steering stick, if you will. It has the same function as a helm does, but it is usually used on smaller boats, where a helm would take up too much space. Or by people who prefer it to a helm, since a tiller offers a bit more in terms of response.

The rudder is the long, flat piece of metal or wood that sits underwater below the back of your boat. Connected to a tiller or a helm, it is used to control the direction of your exciting voyage. By the way, since aerodynamics and hydrodynamics work in similar ways, a plane is also operated by a rudder. Though that one isn't underwater. Hopefully.

Hull is the boat's body. Whatever the shape or size, whether opened on top (like a dinghy) or closed by a deck, (like a traditional sailboat) it's all called a hull. Structures sitting on top of the deck, like a deck salon or cabins, aren't considered a part of the hull anymore.

The keel is an underwater fin below the boat's belly. The sizes and shapes vary, sometimes it is relatively short and goes deep, (fin keel) sometimes it runs from the front all the way to the back (full keel or ballast keel). It is there mainly for stability and to help maintain forward direction when sailing.

The cockpit is the area where a boat is operated from. On sailboats, it is usually in the back and it is an open area without a roof, though this varies. You will find the rudder control and winches there. In 'smaller' (below 70 ft or so) sailboats this area oftentimes doubles as a deck dining place with a table and seating.

The bimini is a sun roof or shade that is covers the cockpit, and is generally attached to a steel frame which runs over the cockpit.

This is where things tend to get confusing. There are a whole lot of parts and a whole lot of names for them. It pays off for you and your crew to know them though, as during the stormier moments, you all want to be on the same boat (ha, ha) linguistically, as every second counts.

Lines are ropes. Not much more to add here. I suppose a 'line' sounds a bit fancier than a 'rope'. One thing this article will teach you is that if there is the slightest crack in the wall of your boat, linguistic elitism will leak its way in.

This one is quite self-explanatory. The mainsail is the main, largest sail of the boat, attached to the mast on the side and the boom at the bottom. It has a triangular shape and serves as the most important sail, the first one you should get acquainted with if you are just starting out.

The jib is the front sail of your boat, sometimes also called the genoa. That is as long as you are sailing on the traditional sloop - the classical two sail setup you see the most often. The jib is wrapped around the line that goes from the top of your mast to the boat's bow.

Spinnaker is the third type of sail you are the most likely to encounter on your travels. It goes in front of your boat and has a half balloon or kite-like shape. This is because it is constructed specifically for sailing downwind. Its purpose is to grab as much backwind as it can and drag your boat forward. It is not attached to the boat most of the time like the mainsail or the jib, instead, it is stored separately and used only when needed.

The mast is the tall, vertical pole that goes from the floor of your salon, through the deck, meters above your boat. All the sails are attached to it, also radars and lights, giving sailboats radio and visual visibility far greater than that of equally sized motorboats. Take that, ya noisy stinkies!

The boom is the horizontal pole right above the deck, attached to the mast at the right angle. The bottom of the mainsail is attached to it, it is used to determine its shape and direction. It is also where the mainsail is often stored, folded and covered with a protective sheet. The boom is also among the top causes of injuries on a sailboat, as in certain winds it tends to swing with force powerful enough to knock a few grown men overboard. Stay away from its reach at all times when under sail.

The forestay is the cable going from the top of the mast to the very front of the bow. It is there to hold the mast in place. Sometimes you will find people refer to it as the 'headstay'. It is often made of steel, so it is safe to hold on to it when you are pretending to be Jack on the bow of the Titanic's, the boat hits a wave and you lose your balance.

This diagram is from our guide on sailboat parts , which I really recommend for beginners. It walks you through all the most important sailboat parts in normal words.

The backstay is the cable going from the top of the mast to the very back of the boat. In many cases it is doubled at the bottom, each end attached to one corner of the back of the boat so that they don't interfere with space and provide more stability for the mast. Just as with forestay, these are made of steel.

Shrouds are the cables going from the top of the mast to the left and right side of the boat. Sometimes there are four, two on each side. Together with forestay and backstay, they make sure your mast withstands all the forces exerted on it when the wind pushes the sails.

The foot of a sail is its bottom edge. If you imagine a sail as a triangle, the base is called the foot. You probably won't use this term while sailing, but when researching proper sail trim, it is likely you will stumble upon it.

This diagram is again from our guide on sailboat parts , which I really recommend for beginners. If you're looking for a good starting point to learn your sailboat ins and outs, this article is perfect for you.

Leech of a sail is its back side edge. Thus it is the part closest to you when you are standing at the helm. Just as with the foot, this is a term quite often used when describing sail trimming techniques, since the shape of the leech determines the shape of the whole sail.

Luff of a sail is its front side edge. Thus the part the furthest from you when you are standing at the helm. For mainsail, it is the edge that is right next to the mast, for the foresail it is the edge right next to the forestay. Just as with foot and leech, the shape of these edges determines the overall shape of the sail so you will most likely encounter these terms in trimming lessons and tutorials.

The head of a sail is its top corner. On a traditional sloop, you will have the 'main head' and the 'jib head'. There is usually a reinforcing patch of some kind on these corners, as you will find a hole in them to which a line is attached.

It's also something else entirely, but more on that later ...

Halyard is the line attached to the sail head. On your boat, you will most likely have two. The 'main halyard' which is what you use to hoist your mainsail if it is folded on the boom, and the 'jib halyard' which holds the jib head up.

Clew of a sail is its back corner. The line attached to the 'main clew' will be used to hoist your mainsail if it is wrapped inside of the mast. The line attached to the 'jib clew' will be used to open the jib on most sailboats since jibs are most often wrapped around the luff.

Telltales are light, usually cotton or wool pieces of ropes attached to a sail, showing you the airflow around it. These are important because they help you determine if your trim is effective or not. Because of the material they are made of, you might sometimes encounter them being called 'woolies'.

Vang, or a 'boom vang' is a device pulling the boom down. This is important because it controls the tension of the mainsail, influencing its shape greatly. You won't find it on every boat though. Holiday cruisers often don't have it, as it is a piece of equipment focused on performance and thus not necessary for your average trip.

Topping Lift

The topping lift is a line that is attached to the aft (back) end of the boom and runs to the top of the mast. It supports the boom whenever you take down the mainsail.

Also referred to as a 'horse', the traveler is a side to side track to which the boom is attached, allowing the control of the extent to which the boom goes off the centerline. This is important especially if the wind is blowing from behind and you need to control the angle of the mainsheet.

Outhaul is the line attached to the mainsail or the jib clew, allowing the control of the foot tension. This is important for determining the sail shape - for instance in stronger winds, you want the foot to be more tense to achieve a more effective airflow as opposed to slower winds where you can allow the foot to arch more.

Reefing is reducing the sail area to lessen the power exerted on it by the wind. You may want to reef if the wind is getting too strong for your boat, or if it is changing too rapidly, as an overpowered boat is difficult to control. Fun fact: they say that when you feel you need to reef because the wind got too strong, it is already too late to reef.

A batten is a slat placed horizontally in the body of the sail to support its shape. You will not find them on all sailboats, it is a performance-enhancing element that many cruisers lack. It helps tremendously as without it, sails tend to belly out and lose their shape under certain conditions.

The cleat is a piece of fitting where a line can be secured and immobilized, even if under great tension. It usually consists of two cogwheel-like pieces fastened close to each other, in the middle of which the rope is placed, unable to move thanks to friction. This type is great as it allows for a quick release. Sometimes though, it is a simple piece of metal or plastic where the rope is tied.

...and then there are all those things that just float around you when sailing, those little things that are the reason for you having to carry a dictionary in your pocket.

Fenders are bumpers allowing some contact with other boats or piers while docked, without scraping the paint. They are often balloon-shaped, made of rubber or some relatively soft material. They are usually attached to the boat's railing and you move them around as you need.

The beam is the width of the boat. Could be just called width, I know. The word comes from the fact that there are transverse reinforcing beams in the boat hull and deck. Next time you are choosing your charter boat for holidays, you will know what this attribute means.

True wind is the actual direction and speed of the wind. This is different than the apparent wind, which is wind direction and speed relative to the boat. Apparent wind is a combination of the true wind and the headwind, which is the wind the boat experiences solely by being in motion.

The berth is a sleeping space on a boat. Thus if a boat has eight berths, it means eight people can comfortably sleep on it. Note that this often includes the salon couches, so a berth is not necessarily a space in an actual bed for one person.

Boat's draft is the distance from the water surface to the deepest point of the boat. In other words, the draft is the minimum water depth you can go to and not scrape your hull or keel. Better double this number when sailing, just to be safe, as hitting the seabed can have disastrous consequences.

Tacking is zig-zagging towards your destination. It is necessary in case your destination is in the direction of the wind since sailboats can not go directly into it. Since the closest to the wind direction you can sail is around 45 degrees, you have to change direction left and right from your desired course.

This diagram is from our guide on sailing into the wind for beginners , which explains in 7 simple steps how to get good upwind sailing performance.

Bareboat is a boat without a skipper. You will encounter this term in boat charters and it means you rent the boat without any crew, thus you need to operate it yourself. It is the best way to sail unless you enjoy living in close proximity to a sea wolf who you also have to feed.

The chart is a nautical map. It differs from classical maps as it depicts information relevant for a sailor - water depth, navigational hazards, seabed material, anchorages and so on. Formerly made of paper, these days made of ones and zeros. As is everything in this digital world.

We have a guide that explains all the different chart types clearly for beginners - read it here .

Galley on a boat is its kitchen. Also a medieval warship, but if you find this term in a boat's description, war is not likely what they have in mind.

Heads on a boat is the bathroom. Though in all my years of sailing I have never ever heard anybody use this term instead of a 'bathroom'. I suppose saying that you are going to use the heads just sounds odd.

A knot is the unit of speed of boats. It is equal to one nautical mile per hour. That is 1.852 kilometers per hour or 1.5078 miles per hour. Though a bit confusing and annoying at times, you will have to get used to this, since most of your boat's instruments will use this unit. It dates all the way back to the seventeenth century when boat's speed was measured with a rope with knots tied on it.

Mooring is attaching the boat to a buoy that is anchored to the seabed. This is usually a cheaper option to docking in a marina. It also means larger space between the boats anchored in the same area, thus more privacy. Though you will have to use your dinghy to get to shore instead of just stepping on the pier directly from your deck.

A salon on a boat is its living room. On smaller boats, it is usually in the same room as the boat's kitchen and the captain's corner with navigation instruments.

A skipper is the captain of a sailboat. If you ask me, the word 'captain' is much better than a skipper, which to me sounds like a small boy who sits on the shore the whole day, skipping stones. But hey, who am I to talk.

A monohull is a classical boat with a single hull. A boat with two hulls is called a catamaran, or a 'cat'. Although rare, there are also trimarans, boats with three hulls. Multihulls with four or more hulls do happen but they are an unnecessary freak of nature.

So there you have it. Fifty sailing terms you will encounter the most when traveling or learning. I know you might think some of them are a bit unnecessary since they have a perfectly fine 'real world' equivalent. I agree. But until the tradition changes, you might want to get some of these under your skin.

A boat's freeboard is the distance from the upper deck to the waterline. Classic yachts have low freeboards, so they appear to lay deeper in the water, as opposed to more modern yachts, which have a higher freeboard. It literally means 'free-board' : the amount of visible board.

The lunch hook is a light anchor setup that is used to moor small yachts temporarily. It typically uses a lightweight anchor on a short scope that takes little effort to set. The lunch hook is only used when the crew is on board and will be monitoring the anchor.

In naval architecture and ship design: “Head” = WC = Bathroom. A toilet is still a toilet. The toilet is in the head. In olden day, the toilet was a hole in the head.

Hi Rich, you’re absolutely right. I’ve corrected the error. Thanks for pointing it out.

A nautical mile is one minute of a degree, so if you travel 60 nautical miles that means you have gone 1 degree around the “globe”. (Note: arc length not actual length.) This is the original definition. As such the average was agreed upon and the lengths given a standardization. Which you mentioned.

As such 1 knot is to travel one nautical mile in an hour.

Also 1.5078. I think you made a mistake as it should be 1.1508 miles to a nautical mile.

Thanks for the information. Sorry about being a pedantic mathematics teacher.

So, where is the “nautical mile” calculated from, the equator or one of the tropic lines?

Just to clarify a nautical mile. If you draw an imaginary line from the North Pole or South Pole to the center of the Earth and draw another line from the center of the Earth to any point on the equator, it forms a right angle, which is 90 degrees. This equates to latitude. The equator is 0 degrees and the poles are 90 degrees. Your latitude is the angle that you are north or south of the equator. Each degree of latitude is divided into 60 minutes. A minute of latitude is the same distance matter where you are on Earth. It is 6,076 feet. This is the length of a nautical mile. A statute mile is 5,280 feet, so a nautical mile is 1.1508 statute miles.

Thank you very clear and well explained. Hopefully I’ll remember The Fifty

KöhnSharkösz

Really? No gunwale? No transom? Those or basic terms to the Washington State Boater Education Card required to operate watercraft here. Definitely more of a “need to know” than bimini.

Thank you, those definitions and explanations were clear, thorough, and helpful. I’m really glad I found my way (somehow) to your webpage.

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50 Nautical, Sailing & Boat Terms for Beginners 

Table of Contents

Last Updated on September 29, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Boating has its own vocabulary and if you’re going to be spending time on the water, you should understand a few basic boat terms. Knowing these will make you safer as well as more useful whether boating on your own, chartering or helping friends on their boat.

Let’s divide these words into basic nautical terms and specific sailing terms, listed in alphabetical order.

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30 Commonly Used Nautical & Boating Terms

Here are a few expressions you’ll hear aboard both a powerboat and sailboat, or even at the dock before boarding your boat rental or charter.

• Aft – the direction toward the back or stern of a boat.
• Ashore – not on a boat but on land or a dock .
• Ballast – extra weight laid low in a boat to provide stability.
• Beam – the width of a boat at its widest point, usually the middle.
• Bow – the front of a boat. Multihulls like catamarans have more than one bow.
• Bunk – a built-in bed on a boat.
• Cabin – the sleeping accommodations on a boat .
• Cockpit – the main seating area of a boat that may also include the helm station .
• Crew – the people or staff that help drive and manage the boat.
• Deck – the top or horizontal structure that is laid over the hull of a deck.
• Dock line – the ropes used to tie a boat to a dock.
• Fender – a rubber, vinyl or foam bumper used to protect the boat at a dock; often referred to by novice boaters as “bumpers.”
• Forward – the direction toward the front or bow of a boat.
• Galley – the kitchen on a boat. It can be inside or out on deck.
• Head – the toilet or bathroom on a boat.
• Helm – the boat’s steering mechanism. It can be a tiller or a wheel.
• Helm station – the area where from which you command or drive a boat.
• Hull – the body or shell of a boat including the bow and stern.
• Keel – the longitudinal structure at the bottom of the hull and generally on the centerline. The keel helps with stability and tracking.
• Knot – either various loops tied in a line or a unit of speed which equals one nautical mile per hour.
• Line – any rope on a boat is referred to as a line – not a rope.
• Nautical mile – a unit of measurement used on the water. A nautical mile is approximately 1.2x a statue mile.
• Onboard – on a boat whether on deck, on the cockpit or below.
• Port – the left-hand side of a boat when you’re facing forward or toward the bow.
• Rudder – an appendage below the boat that is controlled by the wheel or tiller to steer the boat. A boat may have more than one rudder.
• Starboard – the right-hand side of a boat when you’re facing forward.
• Stern – the place at the back of a boat.
• Transom – the actual structure of the back edge of a boat.
• Wake – the turbulence left behind a moving boat.
• Waterline – the place where the hull of a boat meets the surface of the water.

20 Sailing & Sailboat Terms

Within boating, sailing has its own specific vernacular. You’ll want to understand it before you step aboard a sailboat to help crew or when taking a lesson.

• Apparent wind – the combination of true wind and the motion of the boat at the time. It’s the wind you feel onboard.
• Boom – the horizontal pole which extends from the mast aft. It holds the bottom of the mainsail.
• Ease – to adjust sails outward or away from the centerline of a boat.
• Halyard – the line used to raise a sail whether a mainsail or a headsail.
• Headsail – a sail that is forward of the mast. It can be a genoa, a jib, a staysail or a small storm sail.
• In irons – technically a point of sail when you’re head-to-wind meaning the bow is pointing directly into the true wind and the boat is unable to maneuver.
• Jibing (also spelled gybing) – changing direction where the stern swings through the eye of the wind.
• Leeward – the direction away from where the wind is blowing.
• Mainsail – the primary sail on a boat which is usually attached in some way to the mast and boom. On most sailboats it’s the primary source of power.
• Mast – the vertical pole that supports the sails. The mast itself is supported by the rigging.
• Points of sail – the boat’s direction under sail relative to the true wind . The points of sail are: close-hauled, close reach, beam reach, broad reach and dead run.
• Reefing – shortening or reducing the area of a sail to de-power a sailboat usually used in a strong wind.
• Sheet – the line that controls the angle of a sail. There are mainsheets, jib/genoa sheets and others.
• Shroud – a part of the boat’s rigging that supports the mast from side-to-side
• Stay – a part of the boat’s rigging that supports the mast fore and aft.
• Tacking – changing direction under sail where the bow swings through the eye of the wind.
• Trim – to adjust sails inward or closer to the centerline of a boat.
• True wind – the actual wind that is blowing – both direction and speed.
• Winch – a rotating drum used to help control lines with a lot of pressure on them. A winch is cranked with a winch handle.
• Windward – the direction from where the wind is blowing.

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Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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Definition of sailboat

Examples of sailboat in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sailboat.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1752, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near sailboat

sail burton

Cite this Entry

“Sailboat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sailboat. Accessed 19 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of sailboat, more from merriam-webster on sailboat.

Nglish: Translation of sailboat for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of sailboat for Arabic Speakers

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Yacht definition.

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For yacht definition there have been expressed different views. Many continue to disagree and argue their own position on what is a yacht . Nevertheless everyone will certainly agree on one thing. In any case it concerns a “pleasure craft” or else yacht is a “recreational vessel”.

The yacht definition in a phrase is: “any watercraft which features accommodation and used solely for pleasure, be it leisure or races or even a getaway”.

Formerly the yacht definition had narrower content. Nowadays, yacht is any vessel intended for pleasure which can accommodate people. And yet the origin of the word had to do with harsh necessity rather than pleasure. But how was this change? Let’s navigate a while into history!

The term YACHT is originated from the obsolete Dutch word “jaght”, which comes from the Middle Saxon “jacht” meaning hunt or to pursue, which is also the short for jachtschip which means hunting ship / ship for chasing. “Jacht” has Proto-Germanic root just like German “Jäger” which means hunter.

The arrival of King Charles II of England in Rotterdam, May 24 1660

She was a swift lightweight chasing vessel which was used by authorities in the coastal parts of the Low Countries by the Sea to pursue outlaws (1) . During the 17th century has been used by the Dutch as a recreational vessel (2) as well as in informal improvised races both in the Netherlands and in their establishment in North America, which later renamed New York. Such a vessel was used in 1660 for the transfer of the Merry Monarch (Charles II) from Scheveningen of The Hague, United Netherlands in Dover, England following the resolution of the English Parliament to proclaim him king and invite him to return.

Until fairly recently yachts were considered as large and luxurious vessels for the personal use and entertainment of important and wealthy persons. The starting point of this perception is claimed to be that by selecting an important person as Charles II the particular vessel for the carriage of, in connection with such an important purpose as the resumption of his crown, remained in the English perception of that era and therefore into the language, that this foreign watercraft is a vessel for important people. In a public speech, Charles praised the “jaght” which was given to him as a gift at Breda during his exile (3) . Charles and his brother the Duke of York James II, built similar vessels. Particularly two of them competed for prize at the Thames. In deed it was from this royal family that sailing for pleasure was spread between the nobility and the wealthy in England.

Cleopatra’s Barge

Dutch and English carried on this luxurious pleasure to America. There in Massachusetts, later on in 1816 the recreational vessel Cleopatra’s Barge was built. With this yacht the matter of opulence and luxury ascended to another level. Out of this level the standards for construction of yachts in the coming years were set.

As regards to the shipbuilding type, pleasure vessels did not remain on the lines of the Dutch craft. As early as the starting point of the new lifestyle they followed other known lines of the era as well such as schooners, brigantines and cutters.

From the mid-19th century onwards, transition happens from sail-powered to steam-powered vessels and from the use of wood to the use metal in the construction. Steam engines emerge and afterwards internal combustion engines. The machines start to be used also in the yachts as were in the naval and the merchant ships. At the beginning machines are installed along with sails that remain for a few years as a backup means of propulsion. The new means of propulsion require storage for fuel and reinforced structure. Consequently pleasure vessels are built large to very large and very luxurious also. Therefore these yachts belonged to the private property of very rich people.

Steam Yacht

In the same period, i.e. from mid-19th century and then, begin to appear in publicity feats with particularly small watercrafts. Their skipper alone and unaided (single handed) sails long distances at the high seas, like the Channel crossing, the Atlantic crossing or even circumnavigating the world. Alongside, books are issued with regards to this kind of adventures at sea. This way it is propagated that small vessels are seaworthy. Small yachts win popularity while many are getting inspired to try yachting. From the time of the Great Depression and after, there has been a reduction in the construction of large and expensive yachts. The trend henceforth is toward the smaller yachts. From there and beyond and in particular from the mid-20th century onwards more and more small size yachts appear. The reason is that as the yacht’s size decreases, the construction cost is reduced at a faster rate than the rate at which the size decreases. Further to this, from the 80s and after they were developed construction methods under which the cost per unit of production was increasingly reduced. The new construction methods use new materials such as fiberglass, and deploy mass production processes based on standard designs. On the other hand there has been a substantial rise in the standards of living, mainly in Western Europe and North America. As a result, there has been more available income for allocation to more affordable in terms of construction cost yachts, either in the form of acquisition or in the form of rental. In this way we saw the considerable flourishing of a new form of holidays and tourism with chartered yachts.

Yachting today is affordable for everyone, especially aboard a yacht rental.

Consequently yacht definition widened from the narrow confines of the large and luxurious pleasure vessel. Now it includes any vessel meant for pleasure which features accommodation. And this is regardless of the primary means of propulsion that can be the sails or the engine of.

So let’s stake out yacht definition: The word emanated from a relatively small and manoeuvrable type of vessel. That vessel was above all very fast because her purpose was to chase other vessels. In the 17th century she was used in competitions where the objective was the speed and the story was the persecution. This and other types were used by important and wealthy persons for pleasure in general. They were built in larger sizes and with great luxury because cost was not an issue for their owners. The more the luxury and the comfort the yachts had the more they were losing their racing character. From the mid-19th century and then small yachts start to appear. These yachts combine the racing character with the recreation prospect providing at least comfortable accommodation if not luxury. By the second half of the 20th century and after the small vessels offering cruising speed and comfort are greatly increased. Nowadays they predominate numerically over the very large and luxurious ones due to the greater acquisition possibilities of by many more people. Well, all these are yachts!

The prevalent element in yacht definition which differentiates her from other vessels, perhaps the unique one, is the kind of use. That is to say, whether used for personal pleasure, something which includes accommodation and at least basic amenities and thence and beyond merely recreational cruise or race. Flagrant example is that following the termination of second World War many individuals bought small warships and turned them into yachts. Therefore a vessel is defined as yacht not just by the design of, but mainly by the way it is used.

Today you don’t need to have high incomes so to enjoy aboard a yacht. No need to buy because you can rent a yacht for a few days and be entertained in any sea of the planet you want. Yachts built for offshore sailing are safe in all sizes. Moreover they provide a wealth of amenities that previously would have been considered a great luxury.

Let’s contemplate that in 1492 Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas onto his flagship that was just 58 feet or 17.7 meters. We easily realize that the board size that once served the necessities of trade, war, and expansion of hinterland through discoveries, today is a common size for navigable pleasure. Today, we can easily enjoy sailing holidays and we can live regally in the terms of once upon, even for a few days.

So we managed to fit all pleasure crafts (or almost all) within yacht definition. If someone wants to know more about what exactly is included today in yacht definition should look for the types of sailing yachts of catamaran yachts and of motor yachts.

—————————

Yacht definition notes:

• Under the name “jaght” there were also other types of Dutch crafts. One example is the armed three-masted merchant vessel that was used in the 17th century on routes to and from the East Indies. Another example is the “d’Halve Maen” with which Henry Hudson explored in 1609 for the northwest passage of America.
• Pleasure crafts have existed among all seafarer nations from the depths of history. Yet here we look at the origin of the word yacht and what is included into yacht definition.
• The jaght was commissioned by the Dutch East India Company. Charles II named her “Mary” in the honor of his sister.

Further reading:

What is a yacht and what isn’t included in this term: What vessels today meet the conditions to be classified as yachts.

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100 Basic Yachting & Sailing Terms You Need To Know

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Yachting is an increasingly popular activity that involves exploring and enjoying bodies of water aboard sailboats or motorboats. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned sailor or brand-new to the sport; knowing the language used in yachting is crucial for efficient communication and secure navigation. We’ll look at some of the most often used terminology and expressions in the world of yachting in this list of 100 fundamental yachting terms, from boat parts to navigation and safety gear, and more. This list is an excellent place to start whether you’re seeking to brush up on your yachting terminology or are just beginning into the sport.

Aft – Toward the back of the boat

Anchor – A heavy object used to keep a boat in place

Ballast – Weight added to the bottom of a boat to improve stability

Beam – The width of a boat at its widest point

Bilge – The lowest point inside the boat where water collects

Bimini – A type of sunshade or canopy used on boats

Bow – The front of a boat

Buoy – A floating marker used to mark channels, hazards or anchorages

Cabin – An enclosed space on a boat used for sleeping and living quarters

Capsize – To tip over or turn upside down

Cleat – A metal or plastic fitting used to secure ropes or lines to the boat

Cockpit – The open area in the back of the boat where the steering and controls are located

Compass – A navigational tool used to determine the direction

Crew – The people who work on a boat, assisting with sailing or other duties

Deck – The top surface of a boat where people can stand or walk

Dock – A platform or structure where boats can be tied up or moored

Draft – The depth of a boat below the waterline

Fender – A cushion or bumper used to protect the boat from damage when docking

Flag – A piece of fabric used to signal or communicate on a boat

Galley – The kitchen area on a boat

Genoa – A type of sail that is used for cruising and racing

GPS – Global Positioning System, a navigational system that uses satellites to determine the location

Halyard – A rope or line used to hoist or lower a sail

Hatch – An opening in the deck or cabin of a boat

Head – The bathroom on a boat

Hull – The main body of the boat, typically made of fiberglass or wood

Jib – A small triangular sail located forward of the mast

Keel – A fin-shaped object located under the boat that provides stability and helps prevent drifting

Knot – A measure of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour

Lanyard – A short cord or rope used to secure equipment or gear on a boat

Latitude – A measure of distance north or south of the equator

Leeward – The side of the boat sheltered from the wind

Lifeline – A line or rope used to provide safety and support on the deck of a boat

Log – A device used to measure speed and distance traveled

Mast – A vertical pole or spar that supports the sails

Mooring – The process of securing a boat to a dock or anchor

Nautical – Relating to or involving ships, sailors, or navigation on water

Navigation – The process of planning and controlling the course of a boat

Oar – A long pole with a flat blade used for rowing a boat

Outboard – A motor located on the outside of the boat

Port – The left side of a boat when facing forward

Propeller – A device that uses rotating blades to provide forward motion to a boat

Pulpit – A railing or fence located on the bow of the boat

Rudder – A flat object located at the back of the boat used to steer

Sail – A piece of fabric used to catch the wind and propel the boat

Sailing is the practice of using the wind to power a vessel through the water

Sheet – A line or rope used to control the angle of the sails

Skipper – The person in charge of operating a boat

Stern – The back of the boat

Tack – The direction of a boat when it is sailing upwind

Throttle – The control used to increase or decrease engine speed

Tiller – A handle or lever used to steer a boat

Transom – The flat, vertical surface at the back of the boat where the outboard motor is mounted

Trim – The adjustment of the sails and other equipment to optimize performance

Wake – The waves created by a boat as it moves through the water

Windward – The side of the boat facing into the wind

Winch – A device used to pull or hoist heavy objects on a boat

Yacht – A larger, more luxurious type of boat typically used for pleasure cruising

Bilge pump – A device used to pump water out of the bilge

Boom – The horizontal pole or spar that extends from the mast to support the bottom of the sail

Bowline – A knot used to secure a line to a fixed object

Cam cleat – A device used to secure a line under tension

Catamaran – A type of boat with two parallel hulls

Centerboard – A movable fin located underneath the boat that helps improve stability and maneuverability

Chafe – The wearing away or damage to a rope or line caused by friction against another surface

Clew – The lower corner of a sail

Current – The flow of water in a particular direction

Dinghy – A small boat used to transport people or supplies to and from shore

Fairlead – A device used to guide a line or rope in a particular direction

Flotation device – A piece of equipment used to keep a person afloat in the water

Forestay – The wire or rope that supports the mast at the front of the boat

Gaff – A spar used to support the upper edge of a sail

Headway – The forward motion of a boat

Inboard – A motor located inside the boat

Jibsheet – The line or rope used to control the jib sail

Keelboat – A type of sailboat with a fixed keel for stability and maneuverability

Luff – The forward edge of a sail

Masthead – The top of the mast where the highest sails are attached

Navigation lights – Lights used to signal other boats of the position and direction of a boat at night

Outhaul – The line or rope used to control the tension of the bottom of the sail

Planing – The state of a boat when it is moving quickly across the water and partially out of the water

Powerboat – A type of boat that is powered by an engine rather than sails

Ratchet block – A device used to reduce the effort required to pull a line under tension

Reefing – The process of reducing the size of the sails in high wind conditions

Rigging – The system of ropes and wires used to support and control the sails and mast

Rudderpost – The vertical post or shaft that the rudder is attached to

Scow – A type of sailboat with a flat bottom and squared-off ends

Shackle – A metal fitting used to connect two pieces of rope or chain

Spinnaker – A large, lightweight sail used to catch the wind when sailing down

wind 90. Spreaders – The horizontal struts on a mast that help to support and spread the shrouds

Standing rigging – The fixed parts of a boat’s rigging system, such as the mast and shrouds

Stern light – A white light on the back of a boat used to signal other boats at night

Stowaway – A person who hides on a boat in order to travel without permission

Tiller extension – A device used to extend the length of the tiller to make steering easier

Topside – The upper part of a boat, above the waterline

Transom door – A door in the back of a boat that provides access to the water

Traveler – A device used to move the mainsail along the boom

Waterline – The level at which a boat floats in the water

Winch handle – A handle used to turn winches to control the sails and lines

Yawl – A type of sailboat with two masts, the smaller of which is located aft of the rudder post.

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Yacht classification definitions

The merchant shipping sector is ruled by safety regulations developed since the beginning of the 20th century, and is familiar with international conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL and Load Lines. But the application of common safety requirements to pleasure vessels is something relatively new – a continuous work in progress – and is very much dependant on the service and the flag of the yacht.

Defining the problems

Definitions do not help. How often have we read of large yachts, superyachts, megayachts, gigayachts or other bombastic adjectives? How many times have we mentioned MCA, RINA, and Lloyd’s, without having a clear idea of who’s doing what?

A good starting point for understanding the subject is to clarify the main definitions and the roles of the main players:

Large yacht

A large yacht is a pleasure vessel with a load line length equal to or over 24m. Almost all the flag administrations have adopted safety codes dedicated to large yachts and this is, therefore, the only definition having a universal meaning in the international regulatory framework of yachts.

Commercial yacht

A motor or sailing vessel in commercial use (i.e. charter) for sport and pleasure, carrying no cargo and not more than 12 passengers.

Private yacht

A pleasure vessel solely used for the recreational and leisure purpose of its owner and his guests.

Flag administration

The government of the state whose flag the yacht is entitled to fly . This administration sets the safety regulations, manning requirements and fiscal aspects relevant to the yacht registration.

Different flag administrations can inspect the safety aspects of yachts with their own inspectors (see MCA for example) or delegate this activity partially or totally to other recognised bodies such as the classification societies.

The main flag authorities in the yachting industry are: The UK-MCA, Cayman Islands, Isle of Man, Malta, the Marshall Islands, Italy and Luxembourg.

Classification societies

Organisations that establish and apply technical standards in relation to the design, construction and survey of ships.

Classification rules are developed to assess the structural strength and integrity of the essential parts of the hull, the reliability and function of the propulsion, steering systems, power generation and all the other features installed on board which contribute to guarantee the main essential services.

In addition to this ‘third party check’ function, class societies carry out statutory duties on behalf of the major flag administrations in accordance with specific delegation agreements signed with each government.

The main class societies involved in yachting are: American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, Det Norske Veritas, Germanischer Lloyd, Lloyd’s Register, and RINA.

Large yachts: Applicable rules and certificates

Private yachts

The mandatory requirements for these boats are very light. For the majority of flag states, a registration survey and a tonnage measurement, carried out by an authorised surveyor, are sufficient.

The only mandatory international conventions are those relevant to the marine environment: MARPOL and the Anti-Fouling System Convention.

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is intended to eliminate the intentional pollution and to minimise the accidental pollution of the marine environment caused by harmful substances.

The Anti-Fouling System Convention’s purpose is to eliminate the presence of harmful substances for the marine environment contained in anti-fouling paints applied to ships.

Classification

While classification is not mandatory, building and maintaining a private yacht in class is the only evidence that the boat has been designed, constructed and operated in compliance with appropriate technical standards. It is therefore highly desirable, especially in relation to insurance and re-sale purposes.

Commercial yachts

All flag administrations require commercial yachts to be certified in accordance with a specific large yacht safety code.

The most popular of these safety codes, and the first that was developed, is the MCA Large Commercial Yacht Code (LY2) published in 2004. It replaced the Code of Practice for the Safety of Large Commercial Sailing and Motor Vessels (LY1) published in 1997.

LY2 is applied by the Red Ensign Group Flags (UK, Cayman Islands, Isle of Man, Bermuda, Gibraltar, British Virgin Islands, etc.) and is recognised as a reference standard for all the yachting industry.

Other flags have developed similar codes. Luxembourg, Italy, Marshall Islands, Malta, Belize and The Netherlands are some examples.

While introducing a stricter set of rules and regulations compared to private yachts, commercial registration offers yacht owners the possibility of making a profit from the chartering activity of their boats, and allows them to take advantage of all the other benefits of a commercial operation (in particular VAT exemption on the purchase, sale, bunkering, provisions, dry-docking, and others).

Mandatory certificates

The number and type of the mandatory certificates depends on the size of the vessel; the following is an indicative list:

• International Tonnage Certificate : A measurement of the internal volumes of the yacht expressed in gross tons (GT). This measurement should not be confused with displacement tonnage, which quantifies the weight of a vessel.
• Large Yacht Code Certificate : Covers life-saving appliances, fire protection and means of escape, navigational and signalling equipment, intact and damaged stability, manning and crew accommodation.
• Class Certificate : This mainly deals with the yacht’s hull, machinery, electrical equipment and outfitting.
• International Load Line Certificate : This certifies the weather-tightness of the yacht.
• Safety Radio Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 300GT This concerns the radio communication and distress installations.
• MARPOL Annex I Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400GT This deals with the disposal of oil and bilge water from machinery spaces.
• MARPOL Annex IV Certificate : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400 or the yacht is certified to carry over 15 persons. This deals with the disposal of sewage from ships.
• MARPOL Annex V : This is applicable to all ships. It covers the disposal of rubbish.
• MARPOL Annex VI : This is applicable if gross tonnage exceeds 400GT as well as to all main and auxiliary engines with a power exceeding 130kW. It concerns the emissions from main and auxiliary engines (NOx and SOx).
• Safety Construction and Safety Equipment : These are additional prescriptions on machinery, electrical parts, life-saving and navigational equipment for yachts with a gross tonnage above 500GT.
• International Safety Management Certificate : This is only applicable to yachts having a gross tonnage greater than 500GT. A certified management company is requested to carry out this service, preparing operational manuals, procedures for drills, and taking care of the maintenance of the yacht and its installations.
• International Ship and Port Security Certificate : This is only applicable to yachts having a gross tonnage greater than 500GT and deals with the anti-piracy certification. A certified management company is requested to provide the ashore assistance and establish on-board procedures and operational manuals.

The GT Factor

The gross tonnage value (GT) is a key issue, not only as a reference for the registration fees applied by the different flag administrations, but also because it determines whether an international convention, rather than a particular safety standard, applies to a yacht.

The table below summarises how the conventions and relevant certificates come into force depending on the gross tonnage of the yacht. In particular, the following values may have a critical impact:

300GT: In many codes, when you reach this value the yacht must be certified in unrestricted service (stricter requirements regarding stability, load line and life-saving appliances).

400GT: This is the threshold for almost all the environmental conventions such as MARPOL and Anti-fouling System.

500GT: This is the threshold for the application of the SOLAS Convention, meaning stricter requirements on machinery, safety systems, materials of construction, fire protection, life-saving appliances and navigational equipment. Furthermore an external certified management company is requested for the ISM and ISPS certifications.

The tonnage issue could also arise on existing yachts when undertaking major refits or modifications, in that any change to the internal volumes of the boat – such as adding enclosed deckhouses or superstructures, or modifying the hull transom or bow – will modify the tonnage value with the risk of subjecting the yacht to stricter mandatory rules.

UPDATE: Since this article was originally published, LY2 has been superseded by Large Commercial Yacht Code Revision 3 (LY3) .

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• dragon boat
• rubber dinghy

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CE Yacht Compliance Classification

29 March 2016

The CE Yacht Compliance Classification System is the European (CE stands for “ Conformité Européenne ” in French) dictating the standards for CE Certification for construction and sale of boats . Vessels in one of the categories of controlled products cannot be legally sold in the EU unless they have passed the tests to receive the CE Certification. This regulation applies to all yachts for sale and recreational craft from 2.5 to 24 meters, whether they are intended for navigation at sea or in inland waters. New or used boats coming from countries other than the Member States of the European Union are also subject to CE marking.

In 1994, the countries in the European Union adopted the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD), which they amended in 2003. This constitutes a single set of “harmonized” essential requirements for boats sold in any member country.

The compliance with the RCD is required by law in the European Union member countries, and third-party classification societies inspections and their certifications are required as part of the process of CE yacht compliance classification. Boats are given a CE certification at the end of the process, which confirms that they have passed and comply with the technical, construction, safety and legal requirements making them legally valid for sale in the European Union. In Europe, we call them commonly “CE compliant boats” .

CE certification required

Summary of the origin and CE yacht compliant classification and how certification works.

Since 1998, European legislation indicates that pleasure boats must carry the CE certification (or mark), requiring them to meet certain construction and safety standards. For this, the boats are classified into four categories according to their design and skills to face different sailing conditions depending on the wind force and wave height.

Knowing that the weather is a variable phenomenon, these categories are not intended to limit the distance boaters can sail away (this depends on onboard safety equipment), but rather to responsibly inform them about the capabilities of their boat to safely navigate based on the offshore weather conditions. For each vessel, the design category is characterized by a letter between A and D.

BEAUFORT scale

First, let’s start with the BEAUFORT scale. This scale gives you the status of the sea in order to plan your trips. It was the British admiral Francis BEAUFORT who imagined a scale with sufficiently precise criteria to quantify the wind at sea and allow the divulgation of reliable information universally understood. This scale consists of 13 degrees, from 0 to 12, which is remarkable in this scale is that it can assess the effect of wind on the surface of the sea.

We will focus on the scale with the forces of 6, 7 and 8 to our need for explanations. There is indeed a direct link between the Beaufort scale and the certification of yachts (see photo above of the scale to better understand the graduation of wind forces).

• CE CLASS A yachts are designed for large sea voyages (everywhere), in which wind force may exceed 8 on the scale of BEAUFORT and waves can also exceed a significant height of 4 meters. These yachts are designed largely to be self-sufficient in this rather hostile environment. CAREFUL, in most cases, this is only theoretical.
• CE CLASS B yachts are designed to travel off the coast (200 miles or less) in which the winds can be up to force 8 (not exceeding) and waves can reach a height up to 4 meters (not exceeding).
• CE CLASS C boats are designed for travel close to the coasts and in large bays, estuaries, lakes and rivers in which winds can be up to force 6 (not exceeding) and waves may reach a height of 2 meters (not exceeding).
• CE CLASS D boats are designed for cruises in protected waters, like small lakes, rivers and canals in which the winds can be up to force 4 and waves can reach a height up to 0.30 meter (less than 1 foot).

Rules of CE certification

The rules of CE certification for construction and sale of boats are designed to assess the structural strength and integrity of essential parts of the hull, the reliability, and function of propulsion, steering systems, power generation and all other features installed on board to help ensure the key essential services of the yacht.

You understand therefore that a CLASS A yacht respects a much more rigorous construction protocol than a CLASS B yacht and so on… Of course, it is strictly advised not to sail past a force 6 for pleasure yachting and no matter the class A or B. This is a matter of safety, comfort and pleasure being always present in your cruise.

To ensure recreational boating, always check the weather before each ride at sea and especially verify any potential changes every hour. In addition, you must always carry the safety equipment onboard depending on the type of navigation that you practice and the laws and regulations in the countries where you cruise, and feel free to be overcautious.

It is obvious that in case of bad weather, for example, it is better to find yourself onboard a CLASS A yacht, which will necessarily have a better safety margin, regardless of sea conditions… Before buying a new or pre-owned boat , always ask for the classification of your future yacht, this document is required for the new registration (in Europe).

A CE-Type Certificate (or homologation) is generally issued for production vessels manufactured in series by different shipyards , particularly European.

There are several classification societies capable of achieving the CE classification for construction and sale of boats , the main ones are RINA (Registro Italiano Navale), BV (Bureau Veritas), DNV (Det Norske Veritas), Germanischer Lloyd, LR (Lloyd’s Register).

Other societies and certifications

There are also other classification societies for vessels built or sold outside the EU such as ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) and NK (Nippon Kaiji). There are also other types of certifications such as the MCA (UK – Maritime and Coastguard Agency), which however is not a classification organization. We will write more articles on commercial classifications later.

Do not hesitate to contact us for any need for further information on the CE yacht compliance classification , our team at Allied Yachting is at your service.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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