Click here for the Waterfront Times article on using VHF 27 for free Radio Checks.


Click here for a Glossary of Nautical terms.
 

We hold 4 America's Boating Courses through out the year, plus many Advanced Courses.
All classes are held at our squadron base located one block west of Federal Hwy (US1) and
one block north of Sample Road on the west side of 18th Terrace in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Pompano Beach  Power Squadron
3701 NE 18th Terrace
Pompano Beach, Florida 33064

 Click here for the PBPS Map

To access the complete Pompano Beach Sail & Power Squadron Website,
 click here, PBPS Website.
  

The starting dates for our 2013 America's  Boating Courses are listed below.
 Dates of all previous classes are listed (with a strikethrough) for reference
 to our future classes.

All are Welcome.
Our instructors provide their services at no cost to the students.
 However, there is a fee for the student manuals and course materials.

 E-Mail Lt/C Thomas Nolan, SN, our Squadron Education Officer,
 or call him at 954-421-0502, for course information and costs.

  You can also register on site the first night at 7 PM.

We accept Cash and Checks only. Sorry - no Credit Cards.
 

Policy on registering for courses
If you intend to take a course, please E-Mail Lt/C Thomas Nolan, SN  at least two weeks before the start date, so he can order the correct number of kits. If you decide after that time period to take a course, you can still sign up, but Thomas will order the manuals after the fact so it may be a couple of weeks into the course before the manuals arrive.
America's Boating Course Start dates

8  January  2013
26 March 2013
30 July 2013 24 September 2013


Education Contact
 

E-Mail Lt/C Thomas Nolan, SN, our Squadron Education Officer,
 or call him at 954-421-0502 for more information.
Enroll in our next class and see for yourself if we can improve
 your knowledge and enjoyment of a passion we all love.
 

All of our advanced courses are now open to the public, so everyone is welcome,
although there are requirements for a few courses, see below.

We would like to encourage all new members to start taking advanced courses for which you are eligible. We would like to encourage current members to increase their knowledge base, and even repeat courses they have previously taken because most courses and manuals have been updated.

Howard has summarized and can email you the descriptions of the courses if you wish. For even more information, you can go to www.usps.org → Site Index → Departments (Educational) → Education Home Page, where you will see the courses listed in the left column.  Click on the course you are interested in, including downloads.  Please note the dates the manuals were published.

There are prerequisites for some courses. You must take the America's Boating Course before Piloting. You must take Piloting before Advanced Piloting or Junior Navigation. You must take Junior Navigation before Navigation. Otherwise, you can take any other course at any time.
 

Classes in progress or scheduled.

 You can call our Squadron Education Officer Lt/C Tom Nolan, SN at 954-421-0502
or send an E-Mail to him for further class information.
 Register on site the first night of each class at 7 PM.
Course
 		 Start Dates
 		 Instructor
 
America's Boating Course



 Tues Jan 8, 2013



 Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
Piloting



 		Wed Jan 16, 2013



 Alan Teller, AP
561-265-0815
mstboat@bellsouth.net
Marine Electronics Systems



 Wed Jan 25, 2013



 P/C Seth Towbis, S
561-392-5721
signalseth@juno.com
Advanced Piloting



 		Mon Apr 2, 2012



 		P/C Rich Walker, SN
954-781-8061
walker1191@bellsouth.net
America's Boating Course



 		Tues March 26, 2013



 Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
Seamanship



 Wed Apr 4, 2012



 Lt Daniel McEllin, N
 561-733-2148
 mcellind@bellsouth.net
Weather



 Mon Apr 9, 2012



 1st Lt Thomas Nolan, SN
 954-421-0502
latitudemarine@comcast.net
Piloting



 Mon Jul 2, 2012



 1st Lt Thomas Nolan, SN
 954-421-0502
latitudemarine@comcast.net
America's Boating Course



 Tues July 30, 2013


Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
Piloting



 Mon Jul 30, 2012



 1st Lt Thomas Nolan, SN
 954-421-0502
latitudemarine@comcast.net
Seamanship









 Mon Oct 1, 2012









 Cdr Tom Nolan, P
954-771-8569
fatshortman41@hotmail.com

 and

 1st Lt Dan McEllin
561-733-2148
mcellind@bellsouth.net
Sail









 Mon Oct 1, 2012









 Lt Marion Chafitz, JN
954-786-4714
captsirius@aol.com

and

Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
 hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
America's Boating Course



 Tues Sept 24, 2013



 Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
Instructor Development



 Wed Oct 3, 2012



 Lt/C Howard Kaufman, SN
561-395-1705
 hkaufmanmdjd@aol.com
Cruise Planning



 		Wed Oct 3, 2012



 Lt Aldo Aurilio, S
561-395-0797
aurilio@aol.com
Engine Maintenance



 Wed Dec 5, 2012



 P/D/Lt James Sanislo, S
561-495-4920
fmiu2@aol.com
     
 
America's Boating Course
 
Pompano Beach Sail & Power Squadron prides itself in being on the first wave of boating education.  Since becoming a unit of the United States Power Squadron in 1958, our goal has been to educate the public on safe boating.  We hope that after reading these pages, you will be infected with the education "bug". After all, the more knowledgeable boaters we have, the safer it will be for everyone on the water.

America's Boating Course is the mainstay of our existence.  It is a traditional civic service of the United States Power Squadron  organization.  Since 1914, local squadrons have presented the course to anyone who wishes to attend.  To date more than three million people have taken advantage of this course.  Will you be next?
Learning to boat safely is important, and the increased knowledge will enhance your safety on the water and your enjoyment of the sport.

America's Boating Course is designed to be useful to all boaters, from a fisherman in an outboard to the skipper of a large cruiser or sailboat.  All boaters are subject to nautical rules and regulations.  Skippers should learn and respect boating courtesies.  The course is meant to be of interest to the entire family; older children are welcome.  We encourage your family to attend as a group.  This Course is NASBLA approved and recognized by the Florida DEP as fulfilling the educational requirement for obtaining a Florida Boater ID card (s327.395).

 
Some of the topics covered in the Squadron Boating Course:
 
                 Charts           Determining Position
                 Trailering           Florida Boating Laws

                 Boat Handling

           Boat terms and types
                 Plotting a Course           Marine Radiotelephone
                 Navigational Rules           The Mariners Compass
                 Adverse Conditions           Government Regulations
                 Distance, Time, Speed
                        Calculations		           Marlinespike
               (knots & line handling)

Click here to view  America's Boating Course.  Click here to test your Boating Knowledge.
 

After successful completion of the America's Boating Course,
 additional educational opportunities are available to you.
 

Advanced Grades
 

We offer the following Advanced Course's that are generally done in this order.
 
                    Seamanship (S)
                    Piloting (P)
                    Advanced Piloting (AP)
                    Junior Navigation (JN)
                    Navigation (N)


Click here for a brief description of the Advanced Grades.
 

Elective Courses
 
In addition to the advanced grades, we also offer members the following elective courses which may be taken in any order and at any time.  Anyone completing a grade level of at least Advanced Piloting (AP) and three elective courses is awarded the Educational Proficiency Award.
 
           Sail         Cruise Planning
           Weather         Marine Electronics
           Engine Maintenance         Instructor Qualification


Click here for a brief description of the Elective Courses.

E-Mail Lt/C Thomas Nolan, SN our Squadron Education Officer,
or call him at 954-421-0502 for more information.
 

Educational Achievement
 
Anyone completing all navigational courses that results in the grade of Navigator (N), and all elective courses, will receive the Educational Achievement Award.  They will be recognized as Senior Navigator and have SN following their name.
 
Supplemental Courses (self study)
 
We also have a series of Supplemental Courses covering a wide variety of subjects of interest to the boater.   No grade credit is given for these courses.
 

  
            GPS            Amateur Radio
            Oceanography            Boat Insurance
            Compass Adjusting            Introduction to Sailing
            Sight Reduction Methods            Predicted Log Contests
            Calculators for
                        Navigation		            Introduction to
                 Navigational Astronomy


Canadian Citizens
 
The Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons (CPS) and United States Power Squadron are organized along generally similar lines and conduct roughly equivalent training programs.  There is no official connection between the two organizations; however, there are close lines of communications and a well developed sense of unity between them.  USPS  and CPS have an agreement regarding each others educational courses.  A CPS member may participate with a USPS  squadron and take advanced and elective courses.  A similar arrangement exists for a USPS  member residing in Canada who wishes to take advanced grades or elective courses with a squadron of CPS.

A Canadian who passes the USPS Boating examination and desires to become a member of CPS can do so by notifying CPS.
 

Click here for more information on the Canadian Power Squadron.
 

Educational Benefits
 
Many educational benefits are self evident.  By becoming more educated and self-reliant, you will be looked upon by the boating community as a responsible boater.  Your time on the water will become more enjoyable and less problematic.

Another benefit is that some insurance companies will give lower rates to those that have furthered their education.

The other benefit that may not be so readily apparent is that after taking a few courses, you may find that you would enjoy helping others.  This can be done by volunteering to teach, proctor, or work in the background organizing and setting up the educational department.  A great sense of satisfaction is to be received in educating those students who are eager to learn more about the sport of boating.
 

Now is the Time
 
South Florida is one of the boating capitals of the world. Florida has approximately 8,250 miles of tidal coastline, 1,700 miles of rivers and streams, 3 million acres of lakes, 771,000 registered Florida boats (plus many more documented and visiting boats) all of which seem to be on the water at the same time.  With that large fleet of boats, now is the time to take that first step in becoming not just a "boat owner", but a "knowledgeable boat owner".  We would like you to come join us at the Squadron Boating Course.  Hopefully, this course will pique your interest and be the foundation for your continuing education.  The Novice and Old Salt alike will benefit from what we have to offer.
 


Back to Top


GLOSSARY
 

A
 abaft

Behind, aft of.
 abeam  Off the boat at right angles to centerline.
 adrift  Unattached to shore or bottom, floating out of control.
 advection fog  Fog that forms when hot air moves over cold water.
 aft, after  At, near, or toward the stern.
 aground  Touching or stuck on the bottom.
 ahead  1. The direction toward the bow of a boat (relative to the position of the
     observer).
 2. In front of a boat.
 3. Moving in a forward direction. Compared to astern.
 aids to navigation  Charted objects available to assist in determination of position or safe course or to
 warn of danger (e.g., buoys, beacons, fog signals, lights, radio beacons, range
 marks). Also, any electronic device used for navigation.
 all-around lights  All-around lights are visible 360 degrees. They may be white, red, green, or
 yellow, depending on their function.
 amidships  In or near the middle of the boat.
 anchor  Device used to secure boat to bottom of body of water.
 anchorage  Suitable or designated place where boats anchor.
 astern  1. The direction toward the stern of the boat (relative to the position of the
     observer).
 2. In back of or behind a boat.
 3. Moving in reverse (backwards). Compared to ahead.
 auto-circle control  Some PWC's have an auto-circle control that slows the engine to idle speed and
 allows the craft to circle slowly.


B
 backstay

 Part of standing rigging, usually cable, that supports a mast from aft.

 bail  To remove water by scooping it out with a bucket.
 beacon  Anything that serves as a signal or indication for guidance or warning. A fixed
 (non- floating) aid to navigation.
 beam  1. Maximum width of a boat.
 2. A horizontal athwartship
 bearing  1. Horizontal direction of an object from an observer, expressed as an angle from a
     reference direction, e.g., compass bearing, true bearing, relative bearing.
 2. A device for supporting a rotating shaft with minimum friction. May take the form
     of a metal sleeve (a bushing), a set of balls (a ball bearing), or a set of pins
     around a shaft (a roller or needle bearing).
 berths  1. Bed.  
 2. A place for mooring your boat in a harbor or port.
 below  Beneath the deck.
 bend  1. To make fast a sail to a spar or stay.
 2. A. knot to secure a line to another line or object.
 bilge  Lowest part of a boat's interior.
 bitter end  The inboard end of a line, chain, or cable; the end made fast to the vessel, as
 opposed to the working end, which may be attached to an anchor, cleat, or other
 vessel.
 boater's fatigue  Exposure to noise, vibrations, sun, glare, wind, and other motion on the water
 produces boater's fatigue. Your reaction time is affected almost as much as if you
 were legally drunk.
 boom  A horizontal spar used to hold the bottom of a sail.
 bow  Forward end of a boat.
 bow line  A line used at the bow of a vessel.
 bowline  Knot used to form an eye or loop in the end of a line. (Pronounced "bo-lin".)
 braided rope  Rope fibers are interwoven in clockwise and counterclockwise directions along the
 length of the line. Braided rope generally has two parts, a hard strong core and one
 or more braided layers.
 bridge clearance  Vertical clearance under a bridge at mean high water
 bridge
 communications		  Used for relaying ship-to-ship navigation communication between large commercial
 vessels and do not normally involve recreational boaters.
 bridle  A length of line or wire rope with both ends secure (or a secured loop) to the middle
 of which another line is attached.
 broach  Turn a boat broadside to wind or waves, subjecting it to possible capsizing.
 buoy  Anchored floating device used as an aid to navigation. May carry a light, horn,
 whistle, bell" gong, or combination for identification. Also, may be used to mark a
 mooring (i.e., anchor buoy).
 buoyance  The upward force exerted by a fluid on a body or object in that fluid. The upward
 force that keeps a boat floating.


C
 cabin

 The enclosed or decked over living space of a boat.

 canoe  A small paddle boat that usually has symmetrical hulls with pointed bow-like
 structures at each end; normally open on top.
 capsize  To turn over, upset.
 carrying handle  Kayaks are normally equipped with carrying handles at each end to facilitate lifting.
 carrying yoke  A carrying yoke is a permanent strut located amidships. It is used in transporting
 the canoe in addition to providing structural rigidity.
 cast off  To let go a line; to set loose, unfasten; to undo all mooring lines in preparation for
 departure.
 catboat  Sailboat with a mast stepped near the bow, and no jib.
 cathedral hull  A variation of the trimaran hull, this design is basically one hull incorporating a
 large central section and keel with a small keel on each side.
 centerboard  A pivoted board that can be lowered through a slot in the keel to reduce leeway.
 centerline  Fore-and-aft line that runs along the exact center of a boat.
 chafing gear  Sacrificial wrapping around lines, rigging, or spars to absorb wear.
 chainplate  A chainplate is a metal strap fastened to a boat. Shrouds and stays are attached to
 chainplates.
 chines  The lengthwise breaks in a hull's shape are called chines. A flat bottom boat has a
 deadrise of 0 degrees.  A V-bottom boat might be as high as 25 degrees. Chines can
 be easily spotted since they form a sharp bend in the hull rather than the gradual
 turn of the round bottom.
 chock  1. Fitting to guide a line or cable.
 2. Wedge or block to keep an object from moving.
 cleat  Fitting, usually with two projecting horns, to which lines are made fast.
 clove hitch  A knot used to secure a line temporarily to a bitt, spar, or rope.
 cockpit  Well or sunken space in the deck.
 cockpit rim  A pronounced cockpit rim on a kayak is often provided to attach a sprayskirt to
 help keep water from entering the hull
 coil  To arrange a line in loops.
 coil  Initial cold shock occurs in the first 3 to 5 minutes of cold water immersion. Your risk
 is an automatic gasp reflex action as soon as immersed in water under 50  degrees
 Fahrenheit. If your head is underwater you can ingest water, drown, or have a
 constricted windpipe and suffocate.
 cold water
 immersion		  Cold water immersion is dangerous and may kill you quickly before hypothermia
 sets in. Canadian researchers found that people were dying long before the effects
 of hypothermia would have predicted due to the near instantaneous effect of cold
 water immersion.
 COLREGS
 demarcation line 		 Typically, this line appears about 3 miles off the continental coastline. When
 leaving or arriving, this is the imaginary line dividing inland rules and international
 rules.
 communications
  with other boaters		  Communications with other boaters establish location or meeting places and times
 and other types of relevant information.
 compass course  The course by boat's compass. The angle between the boat's keel and the north
 point of the compass card when the boat is on course.
 compass error  Combined effect of variation and deviation.
 controlled area
 marks		  Controlled area marks are regulatory marks with the type of control indicated on
 them,  such as speed limit or no wake.
 cordage  A general term for all types of rope.
 course (C)  The direction in which a boat is steered through the water.
 course over ground  Actual direction of travel of a boat over the bottom. (This is a term in common
 usage, although course is a misnomer. The path of a boat with respect to the
 bottom is track.)
 course steered  The direction in which the bow of the boat is pointed when underway.
 crown  The point on an anchor where the shank joins the arms.
 cuddy  A shelter cabin in a small boat.

 current

 1. The horizontal movement of water.
 2. The movement of electrons through a conductor.

D
 daggerboard

 A sliding board that can be lowered through the keel to reduce leeway.

 Danforth anchor  An anchor with long, pointed, hinged flukes with great holding power. Fortress,
  West Marine, Hooker, and Suncor are other examples of this type of anchor.)
 dangerous area
 marks 		 Dangerous area marks are regulatory marks with orange diamonds and the word
 Danger in black letters within the diamond.
 datum  The reference plane from which depths of water are measured and recorded on
 charts (as "charted depths" or "soundings") and, in coastal waters, to which height
 of tide is added algebraically to determine depth of the water.
 daybeacon,
 daymark 		 Unlighted fIxed aid to navigation
 
 deadrise

 The design angle between the bottom of the boat and its widest part (beam).

 deck  The portion of the boat that covers the hull.
 deckhatch  Deckhatches are often provided for stowage of gear in enclosed watertight
 compartments on boats.
 deckplate  When used on a canoe a small deckplate is provided on both ends; provides
 structural integrity and a place to grip the canoe while lifting and moving it.
 Deep Vee Bottom
 (or Deep-V)		  See V-bottom.
 
 deviation  Disturbing effect of boat's magnetic fIeld upon its compass.
 Digital Selective
 Calling (DSC)		  An automated format for contacting other radios so equipped.
 
 dinghy  Small open boat used as a tender or lifeboat
 displacement  The weight of water displaced by a floating vessel, hence, the weight of the vessel
 itself.
 displacement hull  A hull that maintains its full displacement of water whether at rest or moving at
 various speeds (as opposed to a planing hull, which generally decreases its
 displacement with increased speed).
 distress call  See Mayday.
 diver-below flag  The diver-below flag (red square with white diagonal stripe) is usually flown from a
 boat, raft, float, or buoy to indicate the location of free swimming divers.
 dock  1. An area of water, within which a vessel can be made fast, between two landing
     piers or wharves.
 2. To guide a vessel alongside a float, pier, or wharf.
 draft  1. Depth of water needed to float a boat.
 2. The fullness or "belly" of a sail.
 DSC  Digital selective calling.

E
 entrapment

 This occurs in flowing water when a paddler becomes snagged by fallen trees or
 debris (referred to as a strainer), then goes under because of the severe hydraulics
 of the water.

 exclusion area
 marks		  Exclusion area marks are regulatory marks with orange diamonds that have a cross
 through them with an explanation in black letters outside the diamond. You will
 find exclusion areas near dams, rapids, and swimming areas.
 eye  A fixed loop at the end of a line
 eye splice  A permanent loop in the end of a rope.


F
 fast

Secure: to make something fast is to secure it.

 fathom  Nautical linear measurement equal to 6 feet
 fender  Protective device between a boat and another object.
 figure-eight knot  A stopper knot; used to keep the bitter end of a line from running through a block.
 fishing  Fishing is using lines or nets (but not trolling).
 fix  Relatively accurate position determined without reference to any former position.
 Usually determined by nearness to a known charted object or by crossed
 (intersecting) lines of position.
 flat bottom  Flat bottom boats represent the basic planing hull and they can go rather fast. Their
 bottoms tend to ride parallel with the surface of the water, so they resist tipping
 from shifting loads on flat seas.
 fluke  Flattened end of an anchor arm, which bites into the ground.
 flying bridge  A flying bridge is a raised steering position on a powerboat, usually above an
 interior steering station.
 fog  Minute water droplets suspended in the atmosphere. Differs from a cloud only in
 that it is at the surface instead of aloft.
 fore-and-aft  Parallel to the centerline or keel.
 foresail  The sail set from a schooner's foremast.
 forestay  A stay below and aft of the headstay on a yacht carrying two headsails. Also used
 as the term for headstay.
 forward  Toward the bow.
 foul  Jammed, entangled, not clear, being hindered or impeded.
 frame  Athwartship structural member (rib) that gives shape and stiffening to the hull and
 to which planking is attached.
 freeboard  Vertical distance from the water surface to the lowest point where unwanted water
 could come aboard.
 FM-frequency
  modulation		  Transmission of intelligence by varying a radio frequency about its center
 frequency or "carrier."


G
 galley

 Area where food is stored and cooked; nautical kitchen.

 gear

 General name for all non-permanent nautical equipment, including crew's
 clothing and personal effects.

 give-way vessel  A term, from the Navigation Rules, used to describe the vessel that must yield in
 meeting, crossing, or overtaking situations. Compare stand-on vessel.
 grounding  A slang term, sometimes used for "having run aground'
 gunwale  Upper edge or rail of a boat. (Pronounced "gun' el")

H
 halyard

 Line for hoisting sails or flags.

 hatch  Closable opening in the deck.
 haze  Fine salt, dust, or other particles in the air, too small to be seen individually,
 reducing visibility slightly or moderately but seldom below 1 mile.
 head  1. Marine toilet and its compartment.
 2. Upper corner of a triangular sailor upper edge of a four sided sail.
 3. Upper end of the mast, masthead.
 4. Foremost part of a boat, bow.
 heading  Direction in which a boat is pointing at a given moment.
 headway  Boat's forward momentum.
 headsail  Sails flown forward of the mainmast.
 heel  Incline to one side due to force of wind or waves.
 helm  The tiller or wheel and related steering gear.
 helmsman  The one who steers the boat with the tiller or wheel.
 H.E.L.P.  Acronym standing for Heat Escape Lessening Posture.
 hitch  A knot used to secure a rope fast to another rope or object.
 hoist  To raise a sail or flag. Also, the length of a sail's luff.
 horsepower  A measure of the power produced by the engine.
 huddle  The huddle position is recommended when there is more than one victim in the
 water. Hug so that chests touch each other with legs and arms intertwined.
 hull  Basic structure and shell of a boat.
 hurricane  A tropical cyclone with wind speeds of 73 miles per hour or greater or of 64 knots
 or greater.
 hybrid inflatable life
 preservers		  These preservers combine inherently buoyant flotation material with an inflatable
 bladder for extra lift.
 hypothermia

 The abnormal lowering of the body's internal temperature resulting from loss of
 heat from exposure to cold air, wind, or water and can lead to death.


I
 immersion
 hypothermia

 Long term immersion hypothermia sets in 30 minutes after cold water immersion,
 depending on water temperature. Cold water robs the body of heat 25 times faster
 than cold air.

 impeller  A rotor or wheel with blades used to pump water or other fluids.
 inboard  Toward the centerline of the boat; inside the boat.
 inboard-outboard
 (I/O) 		 Propulsion system consisting of an inboard engine connected through the transom
 to an outboard drive unit.
 inflatable life
 preservers		  Inflatable life preservers inflate either manually or automatically, typically using a
 CO2 cartridge. They also inflate orally with an inflation tube that allows you to use
 your own breath to inflate the vest. The tube also deflates the vest.
 inherently buoyant
 PFDs		  Inherently buoyant PFDs have buoyant material built in, usually foam or kapok.
 They are the traditional rugged, low-maintenance life preservers that are available
 in adult and child sizes.
 internal combustion  Burning of fuel within an enclosed space.
 International Code
 A Flag.		  When vessels are engaged in diving with divers attached to the vessel, you must
 display a rigid blue and white International Code A flag.
 international
 dateline (IDL)

 The boundary between the - 12 and + 12 time zones, corresponding approximately
 with 180th meridian.


J
 jet drive

 Jet drives use an impeller mounted in a shaft to pull water in from under the hull
 and propel it rearward to provide thrust. The nozzle on the drive is turned to steer
 the boat.

 jib  Triangular sail set on a stay forward of the mast.

K
 kayak

 A small paddle boat that usually has symmetrical hulls with pointed bow-like
 structures at each end; enclosed on top, except for an opening for the paddler.

 kedge  1. Move boat by pulling it up to its anchor.
 2. Type of anchor.
 keel  Main centerline structural member (backbone) of a boat. Also, downward extension
 of hull to increase lateral resistance and stability.
 ketch  A two-masted sailboat with the after mast stepped forward of the rudder post.
 knot  1. General term for securing a line to an object, another line, or itself.
 2. Unit of speed of one nautical mile per hour.

L
 laid

 Three strand laid rope has tiers of fibers that are twisted in groups of three, usually
 in a clockwise direction; then those twisted fibers are themselves twisted in groups
 of three, and so on until the rope is built up to its final size.

 lanyard  Short line used as a handle or to secure an object.
 lanyard cut-off
 switch 		 When fastened to your wrist if you fall off your personal watercraft (PWC), it will
 stop the engine
 latitude  Latitude is an angular distance from the equator (north or south), expressed
 degrees from 0 to 90. The equator is 0 degrees and the poles are 90 degrees The
  horizontal lines shown running east-to-west on charts are latitude lines.
 lay  1. To lay a mark is to be able to reach it in a single tack, close hauled.
 2. The lay of a line is the direction in which its strands are twisted.
 lee (lee side)  Side away or opposite that from which the wind blows. Also, area sheltered from
 the wind.
 length overall (LOA)  The most common term used to describe the size of a boat. It is measured from the
 forward part of the bow to the after part of the stern. It does not include attachments
 that are not part of the hull, although bow pulpits and swim platforms become part
 of the overall length of a boat.
 lifeline  When referring to PWC's, it's the lanyard cut-off switch. In general, a lifeline is a
 rope thrown to a person who is in danger of drowning.
 light lists  Light lists describe all lights, buoys, and beacons maintained in the navigable
 waters of the United States.
 lightning  A visible electrical discharge, generally produced during a thunderstorm.
 line  When aboard a boat, rope is called a line.
 line of sight  Line of direct visual observation from one point to another.
 locker  A storage or stowage compartment.
 log  1. Instrument to measure distance or speed through the water.
 2. A book in which all matters pertaining to a vessel's navigation are recorded.
 longitude  Longitude is the distance east or west of the prime meridian (0 to 180 degrees).
 Longitude lines are the vertical lines shown running north-to-south on charts. One
 degree is 60 nautical miles.  


M
 mainmast  The tallest mast on a two masted sailing vessel.
 mainsail  Boat's principal sail, set aft of mainmast, (pronounced "mains'el").
 marlinespike  A pointed steel tool used in splicing to open the strands of a rope or cable.
 marlinespike
 seamanship		  General knowledge of knots, bends, hitches, splices, and care of lines (rope).
 mast  1. A vertical spar on a sailboat, on which sails may be set.
 2. A vertical spar on a powerboat, from which may be flown a steadying sail or
     flags  and burgees, and which can be used with a boom to lift gear.
 masthead  The top of the mast
 masthead light  Masthead light is a white light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
 Maximum
 Capacities Label 		 Required on boats less than 20 feet in length showing the number of people, total
 weight of those people; combined weight of persons, motor, and gear; the
 maximum  horsepower.
 Mayday  The term used to signify an urgent distress communication under international
 radiotelephone procedures; the highest priority transmission, indicating there is
 immediate danger to a vessel or to someone on board.
 meridian  A great circle of the earth passing through both poles in the direction of true north
 or true south.
 Mean High Water
 (MHW)		  MHW is the average of the highest tide water levels over a number of years.
 Mean Low Water
 (MLW)		  Older charts show depths at Mean Low Water (MLW). In most locations there are two
 low water levels each day, and one is usually lower than the other.
 Mean Low Low
 Water (MLLW )		  Newer charts give depths at (MLLW). MLLW averages only the lower of the two low
 tides each day, so it is a more conservative measure of depth than MLW
 Modified V-Hull  This hull has a sharp entry forward with a deep- V shape that gradually flattens
 toward the stern.
 mooring  Permanent ground tackle to which a boat is attached or moored. A place where
 vessels are kept at anchor.

N
 nautical mile

 A unit of distance equal to one minute of latitude and equal to approximately 6,076
 feet, or 1.15 statute miles.
 Navigational Lines
 of Demarcation		  International rules apply to all vessels on the high seas outside established
 navigational lines of demarcation.
 non-pyrotechnic
  signals 		 Include orange distress flags (black square and ball against an orange
 back ground), mirrors, dye markers, and electric distress lights.

O
 offshore

 A direction away from the shore, as offshore wind.

 outboard  Toward the outside of a boat.
 outboard motor  An engine with propeller attached, designed to be fastened to the transom of
 a boat.

P
 Pan-Pan

 The term used to signify an urgent communication under international
 radiotelephone procedures; the second highest priority transmission, indicating
 that the safety of the vessel or someone on board is involved, but the need for
 assistance is not immediate. (Pronounced pahn-pahn.)

 P.A.S.S.  Acronym standing for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep when using a fire
 extinguisher.
 payout  Slacken or let out a line gradually.
 pendant  Short rope serving as an extension of a line, chain, or cable with descriptive name
 based on use; e. g., mooring pendant (usually pronounced "pen'ant").
 pennant  A tapering flag.
 pier  Structure extending into the water from shoreline to provide dockage.
 pile  A pole or post driven vertically into the bottom, usually to support a pier or float or
 to moor a boat.
 piling  A structure of piles often used to protect wharves and piers.
 pitchpole  Capsize end-over-end.
 pivot point  If you look down on a boat when it turns, you will discover that it turns about a point
 called the pivot point. This point is located along the keel at the centerline of the
 boat, but it may move fore or aft depending upon whether the boat is going forward
 or in reverse. For most powerboats, this pivot point lies about one- third of the way
 from the bow to the stern when going forward, and about two thirds of the way
 (nearer the stern) when going in reverse. The pivot point on sailboats and trawlers
 with extensive keels may tend to stay close to one location, determined by the keel.
 For example, the point on a sailboat with a fin keel is likely to remain close to that
 keel.
 planing hull  A hull designed to climb toward the surface of the water as sufficient power is
 applied and to skim along the water at a greatly reduced displacement attitude.
 plow anchor  An anchor shaped like a farmer's plow.
 plug  A piece of wood fitted into a hole in a vessel, usually below the waterline.
 port  1. Left side of a boat when facing the bow.
 2. Toward the boat's left.
 3. Opening in a boat's side, e. g., portlight.
 4. Harbor.
 port communication

 Port communications include calls to shore (marinas, boat yards) to get
 navigational information and to arrange for such things as supplies,
 accommodations, and repairs.

 post-immersion
 collapse		  Post immersion collapse occurs during or after rescue from cold water immersion.
 Once rescued, after having been immersed in cold water, you are still in danger
 from collapse of arterial blood pressure leading to cardiac arrest.
 power-driven vessel  Any vessel propelled by machinery.
 propeller  A multi bladed, rotating wheel that furnishes propulsion.
 pyrotechnic signals  Pyrotechnic signals resemble fireworks. They include red flares, orange smoke
 (hand-held or aerial meteor), and parachute flares.

Q
 quarter  1. After part of a boat's side, e.g., port quarter.
 2. Direction 450 abaft the beam.

R
 radar

 An electronic navigational system using reflected radio pulse signals to determine
 the relative bearing and distance of an object from the vessel.

 rail  A boat's side above the deck line.
 range  1. Two or more objects in line.
 2. Maximum distance at which an object may be seen.
 3. Distance between any two points, such as a radar range to a navigational aid.
 4. Difference in elevation (height) between any successive pair of high and low
 tides.
 reciprocal  In navigation, a bearing or direction 1800 from another bearing or direction.
 regulatory mark,  white and orange aid to navigation that shows controlled areas, areas of danger,
 and where boats are not allowed.
 restricted visibility  A condition when vessels are unable to see each other because of fog, haze, mist,
 rain, sleet, snow, or high seas ..
 right-of-way  This term applies to vessels on the Great Lakes and Western Rivers. A power-driven
 vessel in a narrow channel or fairway proceeding downbound with a following
 current shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel. Vessels crossing rivers
 shall keep clear of vessels that are ascending or descending the river.
 risk of collision  The skipper and crew of every vessel must use all available means appropriate to
 the prevailing conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If you have any
 doubt, then the risk of collision exists and you must take whatever evasive action is
 necessary to avoid collision.
 rode  Anchor line or chain.
 rope  Cordage made of natural or synthetic fibers; can be made of steel wire.
 round bottom  Round bottom boats offer a smoother ride through the water because they have no
 hard surfaces for waves to pound against and are resistant to capsizing. Usually,
 larger ships such as freighters and cruisers have round bottoms and often have
 underwater appendages to help displace water and improve fuel efficiency
 rudder  A flat board or plate hung on the aft end of a boat and used to steer the boat.
 rudder post  The shaft to which a rudder blade is attached. The tiller or other steering apparatus
 is affixed to the other end.
 running rigging  Running rigging is composed of the lines used to raise, set, and trim sails.


S
 Sailing vessel  A vessel under sail only. When a sailing vessel has its engine running and the
 propeller engaged, it becomes a power driven vessel and must abide by the rules
 for a power driven vessel, even if its sails are raised
 sails  Provide the boat's propulsion through wind-power.
 schooner  A vessel with two or more masts rigged fore-and-aft, with the forward mast being
 shorter or equal in height to the aft mast.
 scope  Ratio of the length of payed out anchor line (rode) to the height of the chock above
 the bottom of the body of water.
 screw  See propeller.
 sea  A system of wind waves. that are still being blown by the wind force that created
 them. Usually irregular and choppy, unlike swells. Typically two seats are built into
 a canoe for the paddlers' comfort.
 seaworthy  Said of a boat that is in fit condition to put to sea
 secure  To cover openings and make movable objects fast.
 Security (Securite)  The term used to signify a message concerning the safety of navigation under
 international radiotelephone procedures' the third priority transmission
 (pronounced "sea-cur-i-tay").
 semi-displacement
 hull 		 Combines the hull features of displacement and planing hulls. These boats have
 sufficient power and hull design that allows them to rise partially out of the water.
 shackle  A U-shaped metal . device with removable pin used to connect a sail, line, or fitting.
 shaft  A cylindrical rod. A rotating shaft is used to transmit power from the engine to the
  propeller.
 shank  The part of an anchor that connects the flukes to the rode.
 sheets  Lines used to control sails and booms.
 shrouds  Wire cables that support the mast from side to side.
 sidelights  Sidelights are a green light on the starboard side and a red light on the port side
 each showing an unbroken light over a 112.5-degree arc of the horizon and so fixed
 as to show the light from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its
 respectiv
 slack  1. Not carrying any load, loose.
 2. To ease or payout a line.
 sloop  Single-masted sailboat with the mast stepped less than 40% of boat length aft of the
 bow and setting a mainsail and normally one triangular headsail.
 small stuff  Light line, marline, waxed twine, etc., used for whipping, seizing and serving.
 snub  To stop a line running out by taking a turn around a bitt or cleat
 sole

 The floor of a boat.
 sounding  A measured or charted depth of water, or the measurement of that depth.
 spars  Poles that support the sails.
 speed  Rate of motion.
 spinnaker  A spinnaker sail flies at the foremost part of a sailboat with special rigging and a
 pole. It usually replaces the smaller jib as the headsail in downwind tacks
 stability  The ability of a boat to resist heeling and overturnmg.
 standing part  The part of a rope that is made fast
 stand-on vessel  A term, from the Navigation Rules, used to describe the vessel that continues its
 course in the same direction at the same speed during a crossing or overtaking
 situation, unless a collision appears imminent. Compare giveway vessel
 standing rigging  Standing rigging is a collective term for stays and shrouds.
 starboard  Side of a boat, or direction, to the right when facing toward the bow
 stem  The upright structural member or post of the bow, attached to the foremost part of
 a vessel's keel.
 stern  After end of a boat.
 stern drives

 Inboard/outboards or I/O's are called stern drives.
 stern lights  White lights that shine 135 degrees aft (67.5 degrees from directly astern and to
 each side of the vessel).
 stock  The crossbar of an anchor. Also, a rudder shaft.
 stow  To put something in its proper place.
 strand  1. To drive a vessel ashore or aground.
 2. One of the lays of a rope (the wound yarns or fibers that are woven with other
 strands to make a rope).
 strainer  Fallen trees or debris that can cause a paddler to become entrapped.
 stranding  Running aground.
 strut  A bracket that supports the propeller shaft; located outside of the hull.
 swamp  To fill with water, but not to founder
 swell  A wave system that has outrun or is no longer being acted upon by the wind that
 created it. A swell is characterized by regular, smooth crested wave forms, usually
 of long wave length.
 swim failure  Short - term swim failure occurs 3 to 30 minutes following cold water immersion.
 Manual dexterity, hand grip strength, and speed movement can all drop by 60 to
 80%.

T
 thimble

 A grooved metal loop, around which a rope or wire rope may be spliced, thus
 making the spliced eye more resistant to chaffng.

 thunder  The sound emitted by rapidly expanding air along the channel of a lightning
 discharge.
 thunderstorm  A storm produced by a cumulonimbus cloud. The thunderstorm is accompanied by
 lightning and thunder, usually with strong gusts, heavy rain, and sometimes hail.
 thwart  Thwarts are used as structural struts connecting the two gunwales at one or more
 points along the length of the canoe.
 tide  The vertical rise and fall of ocean water (most noticeable in coastal regions)
 resulting mainly from the gravitational attraction of the moon and sun.
 tiller  A lever attached to the upper end of a rudder stock, used by the helmsman to turn
 the rudder.
 topside  On or above the weather deck (wholly exposed to the elements).
 towing lights  Towing lights are yellow lights with the same characteristics as stern lights. They
 are mounted at the stern on towing vessels.
 track  The path of the vessel over ground.
 transceiver  A radio set that combines transmitting and receiving modes in one package. It may
 have circuits or components common to both.
 transmitter  An electronic unit capable of generating a signal for propagation through a
 medium.
 transom  The portion of the hull at the stern that is at right angles to the centerline of the
 boat.
 trawling  Trawling is a form of commercial fishing that drags a net or scoop along the sea
 bottom.
 trimaran  The trimaran uses three hulls. The central hull is larger and two small outrigger
 hulls lend stability.
 true course  The course as plotted on the chart, measured from true north.
 turnbuckle  A tension adjusting device for tightening wire rigging or cable, composed of
 threaded rods extending from within a threaded barrel.
 twin-screw  Twin-screw boats have two engines, each with a propeller.

U
 under power

 A boat being propelled by an engine even though sail may be set.

 under the influence  Drugs and alcohol affect your judgment and keep you from thinking clearly.
 Operating a boat under the influence is illegal.
 underway  1. Making progress through the water.
 2. Afloat, but not at anchor, aground, or made fast to the shore.

V
 V-Bottom

 Boats with V-bottoms and deep vee (deep-V) bottoms are variations of planing hulls
  that offer good stability and less pounding in rough water. The sloping sides help
 the boat cut through the waves and track very well.

 variation  The angle between the geographic meridian and the magnetic meridian at a given
 locality. Variation is easterly or westerly, as the direction of the magnetic meridian
 is toward the east or west of geographic north.
 vessel engaged in
 fishing		  A vessel restricted in maneuverability as a result of using nets, lines, or trawls. This
 is differentiated from a vessel fishing by trolling (trailing a lure or baited line behind
 a slowly moving boat) or fishing with other apparatus that does not restrict
 maneuverability. This vessel has no special rights or privileges.
 vessel not under
 command 		 A vessel unable to maneuver or keep out of the way of other vessels due to special
 circumstances such as engine or equipment failure.
 vessel restricted in
 ability to maneuver		  A vessel unable to keep out of the way of other vessels because of the nature of its
 work. Maneuvering may be difficult when towing, dredging, or diving.
 visibility  The greatest distance at which one can see and recognize prominent objects.

W
 wake

 Water surface turbulence left by a moving boat.

 warning  In weather advisories, a bulletin indicating that a hazardous condition, such as a
 tornado or flash flood, is in existence and may threaten some portion of the warning
 area
 watch  1. In weather advisories, a bulletin indicating that a hazardous condition, such as a
 tornado or flash flood, may develop.
 2. A period of time during which a crew member is on duty.
 waterline  An imaginary line along the boat hull from the point where the bow touches the
 water to the point where the stern emerges from the water.
 wave  In water, a series of undulations that move along the surface.
 way  Movement of a vessel through the water, such as headway, sternway, or leeway.
 weather  1. The condition of the atmosphere at any given time and place.
 2. The windward side.
 wheel  A wheel may be used to steer a boat usually connected to the rudder post by means
 of gears and cables.
 winch  A geared drum turned by a handle and used to pull lines such as sheets and
 halyards.
 wind  Horizontal motion of the air, reported in both speed and direction.
 working end  The outboard or free end of a line, chain, or cable, used to make knots, bends, and
 splices and to attach to an anchor, cleat, other vessel.

 


Back to Top

AUGUST 2010                                   NEWS FEATURE

Radio check service eases traffic on VHF 16

         By BETH FEINSTEIN-BARTL
            Waterfront Times Writer

 
Twenty-seven is a number that's becoming increasingly popular with boaters.

It's the VHF marine channel now used for a new free automated radio check service offered by Sea Tow Fort Lauderdale, easing up usage of the VHF 16 frequency that's traditionally reserved for distress calls.

Checks are open to the boating public at large, covering an area that spans from the Bahamas and Florida Keys, up to Jupiter, depending on the strength of the vessel's radio, said Capt. Tim Morgan, owner of the Broward-based franchise.

 About 1,765 checks were requested in the first three days after the automated system's unveiling in early June, and that number continues to surge, mostly due to an aggressive advertising campaign and word of mouth, Morgan said. "It's almost constant now."

Sea Tow initiated the checks, partnering with the MariTEL marine operator system, at franchises around the country in 2009, including nearly a dozen sites in Florida.

Morgan jumped at the opportunity to implement the system after hearing about it during Sea Tow's annual meeting in December. He believes the service will greatly assist in making boating safer in South Florida.

"Radio checks are necessary, but not on channel 16," Morgan said. "We need to keep it clear for the people who really need it.  It's like the 9-1-1 on the water."

When boaters make mayday, distress or assistance calls, there's sometimes so much traffic for requests for radio checks that it can interfere with serious situations, delaying response.

"People aren't doing it nefariously," Morgan said. "They might not be close enough to hear the vessel in distress when doing their radio check. Our ultimate goal is to have all boaters request their radio checks on channel 27, leaving channel 16 open and available to be used as it should, for hailing and distress."

Using the automated service is simple. It's available 24/7, 365 days a year. Turn to channel 27, key the microphone and ask for a radio check, just as you would normally do. The system will record the person's voice, then replay the transmission back, allowing the boater to hear how well his or her radio is working, Morgan said.

"I love it," said Capt. Neil Hodder, owner of Safely Moored, a yacht management, boat training, dockside service and brokerage company in Fort Lauderdale. "It's a good thing. It's unique."

Hodder has become hooked on the system after learning about it through the waterfront grapevine.

"When it first came out, I thought, Oh, my goodness," he said. "As much as I think it's a nuisance for people to be constantly on 16, it's equally important to check your radio. This is an excellent alternative. It's impressive."

He intends to keep spreading the word. "This is something we'll use in our company and in our hands-on boat training. It's a no brainer. We'll direct them to channel 27."

As a member of the U.S. Power Squadron and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in Pompano Beach, Hodder said he also plans to ask leaders in both groups to promote the service.

Gene Cain, commander with U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 37 Lighthouse Point, said he and several auxiliary members use the system. "It's great. It's very easy and quick."

Currently, the Fort Lauderdale Sea Tow operation is receiving requests and sending out checks from its 400-foot-tall antenna on the beach, located at Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

It took about six months to obtain the FCC licenses and install special equipment to get the service up and running. The franchise shelled out initial costs of $5,000 and will continue paying license and maintenance fees, Morgan said.

The system is expected to get a large boost before the end of this year when Morgan said he intends to install the same special equipment at the franchise's second, 800-foot-tall antenna on the Miami-Dade-Broward county line.

Offering the free service has been part philanthropy, part good exposure for the Fort Lauderdale operation, Morgan said.

 Hodder doesn't mind the marketing aspect. What matters is that this is a good thing for the boating community, he said.

The check system has had a huge positive response, said Capt. Charlie Zaloom, vice president of business technology for Sea Tow's franchise-based, international marine assistance organization headquartered in Southold, N.Y.

Fort Lauderdale is one of 11 active sites in Florida. The others are in St. Augustine, Sebastian, Key Largo, Fort Myers and Charlotte Harbor, St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay, Horseshoe Beach, Carrabelle and St. Marks and the Pensacola and Orange Beach areas. Each area uses a dedicated VHF channel between 24 and 28, Zaloom said.

Nationally, the service is available through Sea Tow franchises in Portland/Midcoast; Maine, Boston and South Shore, Mass.; Rhode Island; Huntington, N.Y.; Manasquan, N.J.; Northern Chesapeake and Central Chesapeake, Md., and Hampton Roads, Va.

Checks are also available from Sea Tow operators in Wrightsville Beach and Ocean Isle, N.C. In California, the system is offered in Newport Beach/Los Angles and San Diego. Additional locations are on a waiting list for activation.

The system is expected to spread, with more operations waiting for activation.


Back to Top

| Home | Who We Are | Bridge Officers | Boating Classes | Boating Activities |
| Social Events | Mariner | Photo Gallery 1 | Photo Gallery 2 | Photo Gallery 3|
| Vessel Safety Check | Ship's Store | Port Captain |

� The USPS Ensign (Flag Design),  "Wheel-and-Flag Design",  "Officer Trident Design", "United States Power Squadrons", "USPS",  "The Ensign", "the Squadron" with flag graphic,  "Boat Smart",  "Jet Smart", and "America's Boating Club" are registered trademarks of United States Power Squadrons.

The Squadron Boating Course is a service mark of United States Power Squadrons.
The "USPS Trade Dress" is a trademark of United States Power Squadrons.