Sea Scout Ship # 956

Official Ship's Terminology

Revised 19-April-2006

Introduction:

The Quarterdeck has, in order to facilitate a more efficient transfer of information from Skipper (the person in charge at the time) to crew, adopted a specific set of terminology. Any member taking command of a ship for any amount of time, or any member issuing orders to be carried out by another crew member is strongly encouraged to adhere to the following:

Locations:

“Port” – The left-hand side of the ship as seen facing the bow.

“Starboard” – The right-hand side of the ship as seen facing the bow.

“Bow” – The front end of the ship.

“Stern” – The back end of the ship.

Directions While Under Sail:

“Come Up” – Turn the ship in the direction of the wind.

“Fall Off” or “Come Down” – Turn the ship away from the direction of the wind.

Directions While Under Power:

“Come to Port” – Turn the ship to the left.

“Come to Starboard” – Turn the ship to the left.

Smooth Sailing,

              - Sean Motta, Boatswain Ship # 956