Translate common onboard words into plain English, and know when to ask for clarification.
3-minute read + a quick quizSaily’s illustrated sailing world · Learn the language
“Stand by” means prepare and listen. Confirm you are ready before acting on the instruction. If a command is unclear, ask rather than guess.
Remember these three things
01Listen: identify the action
02Confirm: clarify the task
03Respond: say when ready
Direction and sail controls
“Head up” means turn closer towards the wind. “Bear away” means turn further away from it. “Sheet in” means bring a sail-control sheet in. “Ease” means let a line out under control. These are relative instructions: they do not identify a compass direction, and the helm and crew may have different jobs.
Preparation and ropework
“Ready to tack?” asks the crew to prepare for an upwind turn. “Ready to gybe?” asks them to prepare for a downwind turn. “Hoist” means raise, commonly a sail. “Lower” means bring down under control. “Make fast” means secure a line using the appropriate fitting and method. These words are an introduction, not a substitute for a demonstration.
The most useful instruction: stand by
“Stand by” means be ready for an action, not necessarily do it immediately. Agree the calls your instructor uses and respond clearly. If a call is ambiguous, ask which line or which action is intended. A confident crew member communicates uncertainty early rather than hiding it.
Put it into context
Someone says “stand by to hoist”. Should you immediately raise the sail?
Think it through, then reveal the explanation.
Show the explanation
Not yet. Be ready for the agreed action and wait for the command. If you do not know which line or what your role is, ask before the manoeuvre starts.
Word to know: Make fast
Secure a line using the appropriate fitting and method.
A quick check
What stuck with you?
No scores to chase. Choose an answer and see why.
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