Common Verbs and Actions
To make fast means to secure a rope. To cast off means to release the mooring lines and depart. Fenders are inflatable cushions hung over the side to protect the hull when alongside a pontoon or another vessel.
To tack is to turn the bow through the wind when sailing upwind. To gybe (or jibe) is to turn the stern through the wind when sailing downwind — this requires care as the boom can swing across violently.
Key Points
- Make fast — to secure a rope or line
- Cast off — to release mooring lines
- Fender — protective cushion hung over the side
- Tack — turn the bow through the wind
- Gybe — turn the stern through the wind