Freeboard

The vertical distance from the waterline to the deck edge.

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 F-terms

Forward

Toward the bow.

Furling line

The continuous control line led back to the cockpit that drives a headsail, code zero, or …

Foot

The lower edge of a sail.

Fire extinguisher

A portable pressure-charged bottle used to fight fire on board; yachts typically carry Cla…

Foul weather gear

Waterproof clothing — jacket, trousers (salopettes), sea boots — for sailing in wet or hea…

Fend off

To push the vessel clear of an obstacle by hand, foot, or boat hook.

← Back to full glossary