SHIPTALK: A GLOSSARY OF SHIPPING AND MARITIME TERMS

CABIN – A compartment for passengers or crew.
CAPSIZE – To turn over.
CAST OFF – To let go.
CATAMARAN – A twin-hulled boat, with hulls side by side.
CHAFING GEAR – Tubing or cloth wrapping used to protect a line from chafing on a rough surface.
CHART – A map for use by navigators.
CHINE – The intersection of the bottom and sides of a flat or v-bottomed boat.

CABIN – A compartment for passengers or crew.
CAPSIZE – To turn over.
CAST OFF – To let go.
CATAMARAN – A twin-hulled boat, with hulls side by side.
CHAFING GEAR – Tubing or cloth wrapping used to protect a line from chafing on a rough surface.
CHART – A map for use by navigators.
CHINE – The intersection of the bottom and sides of a flat or v-bottomed boat.
CHOCK – A fitting through which anchor or mooring lines are led. Usually U-shaped to reduce chafe.
CLEAT – A fitting to which lines are made fast. The classic cleat to which lines are belayed is approximately anvil-shaped.
CLOVE HITCH – A knot for temporarily fastening a line to a spar or piling.
COAMING – A vertical piece around the edge of a cockpit, hatch, etc. to prevent water on deck from running below.
COCKPIT – An opening in the deck from which the boat is handled.
COIL – To lay a line down in circular turns.
COURSE – The direction in which a boat is steered.
CUDDY – A small shelter cabin in a boat.
CURRENT – The horizontal movement of water.