Common Sayings Used by Sailors

Sailors have a rich vocabulary filled with unique and colorful sayings. Here are a few common expressions that you might hear on the deck of a boat:

  • "A fair wind and a following sea." This saying expresses the wish for a pleasant and successful journey.
  • "All hands on deck!" This command calls for everyone to come to the aid of the ship in an emergency.
  • "Batten down the hatches." This order means to secure everything on the deck to prepare for rough weather.
  • "Close-hauled." This term refers to sailing as close to the wind as possible.
  • "Heavy weather." This expression describes conditions with strong winds and rough seas.
  • "Land ho!" This excited exclamation is shouted upon first sighting land after a long voyage.
  • "Let go and haul." This command is given to release and then pull in the lines that control the sails.
  • "Make fast." This order means to tie down or secure something.
  • "Pipe all hands." This call summons all crew members to gather.
  • "Splice the mainbrace." This expression, often used humorously, refers to serving drinks to the crew.
  1. What does "a fair wind and a following sea" mean? A wish for a pleasant journey.
  2. When should you "batten down the hatches"? When preparing for rough weather.
  3. What does "close-hauled" refer to? Sailing close to the wind.
  4. What is "land ho"? The excited cry of sighting land.
  5. What does "make fast" mean? To tie down or secure something.
  • Sperry Men's Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe
  • Gill Men's OS2 Offshore Sailing Jacket
  • Mustang Survival M.I.T. 100 Inflatable PFD
  • Astral BlueJacket PFD
  • Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar Edition Multisport GPS Watch

Pre:Why was the Christopher Cross 1980 song Sailing such a big hit when such a small percentage of people actually sail
Next:What are some of the best budget friendly islands in the Caribbean for yacht owners

^