A unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour, approximately 1.852 kilometres per hour or 1.151 miles per hour. Knots are the standard unit of speed used in maritime and aviation navigation.
Category: Navigation & Seamanship
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ECDISElectronic Chart Display and Information System, a computer-based navigation system that complies with IMO regulations and can be used as an alternative to paper nautical charts.Great CircleThe shortest distance between two points on the surface of a sphere, formed by the intersection of the sphere with a plane passing through its center.HeadingThe direction in which a vessel's bow is pointed at any given moment, measured in degrees from north.LatitudeThe angular distance of a point north or south of the equator, measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds from 0 degrees at the equator to 90 degrees at the poles.Lee ShoreA shore that lies downwind of a vessel, toward which the wind is blowing.LeewayThe sideways drift of a vessel from its intended course, caused by wind pushing against the hull and superstructure.
Back to DictionaryEntry updated May 2026