The horizontal direction of one point from another, measured clockwise from true north, magnetic north, or the heading of a vessel. Bearings are expressed in degrees from 000 to 360.
Category: Navigation & Seamanship
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AbeamA direction at right angles (90 degrees) to the fore-and-aft centerline of a vessel.AsternBehind the vessel, or moving in a backward direction.BeamThe width of a vessel at its widest point, measured at the midship section.BowThe forward-most part of a vessel's hull, designed to reduce the resistance of the hull cutting through water.Chart DatumThe reference level from which depths on a nautical chart are measured, typically the lowest astronomical tide (LAT).CourseThe intended horizontal direction of travel measured as an angle from north.
Back to DictionaryEntry updated May 2026