If you’re planning to build a career at sea, understanding maritime terminology is essential. The sea has its language—technical, procedural, and safety-related. For any newcomer, this merchant navy glossary is your first toolkit for survival, communication, and learning.

At SkillStation, we emphasise practical training as much as theoretical understanding. Knowing the correct terms is a critical part of life on board, and this merchant navy glossary will give you a head start in your journey.

Why Learn Merchant Navy Terminology Early?

Every industry has its jargon, and the maritime field is no different. However, miscommunication at sea can lead to serious consequences, from navigation errors to safety risks. This makes the merchant navy glossary more than just vocabulary; it’s an essential skill.

Whether you’re a deck cadet, engine cadet, or rating, you’ll use these terms daily. Understanding them helps:

Pass exams and interviews
Communicate clearly with officers and crew
Follow safety protocols
Build confidence during training

Merchant Navy Glossary: 30 Key Terms You Must Know

Here’s a beginner-friendly merchant navy glossary every aspirant should study:

1. Abaft

Direction toward the stern (rear) of the ship.

2. Abeam

Perpendicular to the ship’s centerline—usually referring to something located off to the side.

3. Ballast

Water is added to ship tanks to maintain stability and balance.

4. Beam

The widest part of the ship is from one side to the other.

5. Berth

A place where a vessel is anchored or docked; also refers to crew accommodations.

6. Bow

The front end of a ship.

7. Bridge

The area from which the ship is navigated and controlled.

8. Bulkhead

A wall or partition inside the ship.

9. Chart

A nautical map is used for navigation.

10. Draft

The vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the ship’s hull.

11. Engine Room

The compartment housing the ship’s propulsion and power-generating machinery.

12. Galley

The ship’s kitchen.

13. Helm

The steering wheel or control mechanism for navigating the ship.

14. Knot

A unit of speed equivalent to one nautical mile per hour.

15. Muster Station

Designated place for crew/passengers during emergencies.

16. Port Side

The left side of the ship is when facing forward.

17. Starboard Side

The right side of the ship is when facing forward.

18. Stern

The back end of the ship.

19. Watchkeeping

Duty shifts to maintain continuous operations and safety.

20. Windlass

A mechanical device used to raise or lower the anchor.

Bonus Terms in the Merchant Navy Glossary

To further expand your merchant navy glossary, here are a few more terms relevant to various departments:

Boiler – Generates steam in the engine room.
CP Log (Course and Position Log) – Tracks the ship’s route and heading.
IMO Number – Unique identification number for ships.
LSA (Life Saving Appliances) – Equipment like lifeboats, life jackets, etc.
FFA (Fire Fighting Appliances) – Fire extinguishers, hoses, and equipment.
SOLAS – International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea.
OOW (Officer of the Watch) – Officer in charge of bridge or engine watch.
SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) – Predefined procedure for critical operations.
Main Deck – The principal horizontal structure forming the “floor” of the ship.
Chief Engineer – Head of the engine department on a ship.

By mastering this merchant navy glossary, you set the foundation for effective training, seamless communication, and career growth.

How to Learn and Remember These Terms?

Here are some tips for memorising the merchant navy glossary quickly and effectively:

Use flashcards for daily revision
Label parts of a ship diagram
Practice with mock drills and safety posters
Read training manuals and watch YouTube videos
Join communities or WhatsApp groups to discuss terminology
Follow maritime forums and updates

Why It Matters During Training and Onboard Life

Knowing the merchant navy glossary gives you a serious edge. It’s not just about sounding professional—it’s about safety and efficiency.

Imagine a scenario where you don’t understand “muster station” or “fire drill.” Your confusion could risk lives. That’s why maritime institutions and ship captains expect all crew to be fluent in these basic terms.

Conclusion

Mastering the merchant navy glossary is one of the smartest things an aspiring seafarer can do. It prepares you mentally, improves your onboard performance, and builds a foundation of respect among your peers and superiors.

At SkillStation, the best merchant navy academy in dehradun, we don’t just teach theory—we use real-life simulations, visual aids, and our skills station model to ensure our cadets not only know the terms but apply them with confidence.

Rayyan Alam

11:55 27 Jun 24

I heard about Skill Station from a senior and decided to join. When I got to Dehradun, I was thrilled with the great faculty and environment. Amrinder Sir is amazing – his communication skills, style, and personality are top-notch. He's more than a teacher; he's like a friend, brother, and mentor. Joining Skill Station was the best decision I made. Unlike other places, Sir helps you until you get selected. Last year, I achieved a 5452 rank in IMUCET but didn't get any company sponsorship. However, Sir didn't leave me. He took care of us until we were selected and continued to guide us even after our selection. This year, with his guidance, I improved to a 4600 rank in IMUCET and got sponsored by ESM. Skill Station feels like a family. Thank you, Sir!

Abhinav Garwal

10:40 27 Jun 24

Thank you Team Skills Station!

For always guiding me.
For not only making a relationship as a teacher-student but also to make a bond like a family members.

Special thank to Amrinder Sir for not only helping and guiding us but also to treat us like an elder brother in our all the tough and difficult situation.

❤️Thank you to all the members of Skills Station team.
- Abhinav Garwal

aakarsh negi

08:22 27 Jun 24

One of the best institutes I have seen that not only has good results but also great management. When I joined this institute, I was a bit shy and was not able to speak in public, but now my personality has completely changed. I am confident and bold, and now I like to socialize even more. Because of the teachers and their guidance, I was able to score a good rank in IMU-CET and got sponsored by Anglo.

Kirti Mishra

08:21 27 Jun 24

I'm a student of skill station by Amrinder sir , I'm a type of student who scared to talk in front of crowd and have a lack of confidence , but after joining skill station family Amrinder sir taught me and helped me in every single step I improved my personality . Our faculties present over there are very supportive , friendly and kind hearted they always present there to help us wherever we need they motivate us to keep growing.One more thing from my side Amrinder sir's classes is not just for interview's it'll always help you further in your life how to stay , how to adjust and how to grow with limited resources. With skill station family I learnt a lot of things .
Thanks skill station family specially a great personality Amrinder sir 🙏

ARYAN KAMRA

08:14 27 Jun 24

Skills Station Is Best academy For The preparation of merchant Navy , all the teachers Are very helpful and Hardworking they have years of experience joining skills station is one of my best decision I have ever taken in my life, Specially Amrinder Sir Who helped us in every situation we have faced during Our exams or interviews thank You to all the whole team of Skills Station Family because of you I Have secured Good Rank in Imucet I highly recommend new Comers please join Skills Station.

Deepika Rohilla

07:01 26 Jun 24

This is the best institute for Merchant Navy and Communication skills. Amrinder Sir helped me to gain confidence to clear the interviews. He always focuses to develop our personality. I am more confidant and more skillful now.