Captain's Log of Queries
1. What is the difference between true wind and apparent wind?
True wind is the actual speed and direction of the wind felt when stationary. Apparent wind is the wind felt aboard a moving vessel, which is a vector combination of the true wind and the boat's own speed and direction.
2. Do I need a license to sail?
It depends entirely on your jurisdiction and the size of the vessel. In international waters, competency certificates like the RYA Yachtmaster or ICC (International Certificate of Competence) are widely recognized and often required by insurance companies and charter agencies.
3. What does "Draft" mean in boating?
Draft is the vertical distance between the waterline and the lowest point of the hull (usually the keel). It determines the minimum depth of water a boat can safely navigate without running aground.
4. How often should I replace my standing rigging?
For stainless steel wire, marine surveyors generally recommend replacement every 10 to 12 years. If cruising heavily in tropical, saltwater environments, 8 to 10 years is safer due to accelerated fatigue and crevice corrosion.
5. What is Port and Starboard?
Port is the left side of the vessel when facing forward (indicated by a red light at night). Starboard is the right side (indicated by a green light). Using these fixed terms avoids confusion regardless of which way a crew member is facing.
6. Can you cross an ocean on a motorboat?
Yes, but it requires a specialized displacement motor yacht (like a Nordhavn or Kadey-Krogen) with enormous fuel capacity, a highly efficient diesel engine, and a heavily ballasted hull to handle ocean swells.
7. What is a "Mayday" call?
Derived from the French "m'aidez" (help me), a Mayday is the ultimate distress signal broadcast on VHF Channel 16. It must only be used when there is grave and imminent danger to life or the vessel.
8. Why do boats use knots instead of MPH?
A knot is one nautical mile per hour. A nautical mile is based on the Earth's circumference, specifically one minute of latitude (approx. 1.15 statute miles). This aligns perfectly with navigational charts, making distance and speed calculations straightforward.