Bilge

The lowest internal part of the hull, where water inevitably drains and collects.

Test your knowledge

Know your nautical terms? Play the free SkipperCheck daily maritime quiz — COLREGs, navigation, VHF radio, seamanship. Earn points, climb the global leaderboard.

Play the Daily Quiz →

Related B-terms

Bearing

The angular direction of one object from another, expressed in compass degrees.

Blanket

To interpose a sail or other object between the wind and another sail so the downwind sail…

Buoy

A floating aid to navigation, anchored in position to mark channels, dangers, or stations.

Broad reach

A point of sail with the wind coming over the quarter — roughly 135° from the bow.

Backstay

A piece of standing rigging running from the masthead (or partway down) to the stern, resi…

Beam reach

A point of sail in which the wind blows at roughly 90° to the boat's direction of travel.

← Back to full glossary