The head of a capstan, formed of semicircular pieces of elm, which, framed together, form the circle into which the capstan bars are fixed. (See CAPSTAN.) … [Read more...]

A display of national colors at all mastheads and the array of signal flags from bow to stern over the masthead (for special occasions and holidays). … [Read more...]

Moving of an anchor over the sea bottom involuntarily because it is no longer preventing the movement of the vessel. … [Read more...]

The distance from the surface of the water to the ship's keel (how deep the ship is into the water).The depth of a ship in the water. This distance is measured from the bottom of the ship to the surface of the water. Draft marks are cut into or welded on the surface of a ship’s plating. They are placed forward and aft on both sides of the hull and also amidships. At the midships draft we will also find the authorized Load Line markings which designate maximum drafts allowed for vessels under various conditions. Depth in water at which a vessel floats The depth of … [Read more...]

A general term used for all watertight spaces contained between the outside bottom plating, the tank top, and the margin plate. Double bottoms are usually sub-divided into a number of separate tanks and can be used to hold clean ballast, portable or boiler feed water, or fuel. They also provide a measure of protection for cargo tanks if the bottom plating is damaged in the event of grounding. Chances of pollution may be diminished due to this protection. … [Read more...]

To double a vessel's mooring lines. … [Read more...]

A cluster of piles for mooring.A dolphin is a man-made marine structure that extends above the water level and is not connected to shore.Dolphins are usually installed to provide a fixed structure when it would be impractical to extend the shore to provide a dry-access facility, for example, when the number of ships is greater than can be accommodated by the length of the berth/pier. … [Read more...]

The belt on each side of the Equator in which little or no wind ordinarily blows. … [Read more...]

A flag display or a sound, light, or radio signal calling for assistance. … [Read more...]

Notification by any means that a distress situation exists and assistance is needed.A radio signal from a distressed vessel automatically directed to an MRCC giving position, identification, course and speed of the vessel as well as the nature of distress.  … [Read more...]