Burdened vessel

The former term (replaced in modern COLREGs usage by 'give-way vessel') for the vessel obliged to keep out of the way in a crossing or overtaking situation.

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Related B-terms

Bearing

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

Bail

To remove water from inside the vessel, traditionally with a bucket or scoop.

Boat speed

The speed at which the hull moves through the water, as opposed to speed over ground.

Ballast

Weight — usually carried low in the keel — that lowers the centre of gravity and gives the…

Bow thruster

A small transverse propeller mounted in a tunnel near the bow that pushes the bow sideways…

Bilge

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

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