If you’ve spent some time at sea, you probably know your bow
from your aft. But for first-time cruisers – and those who haven’t cruised for
a while – here’s a quick list of seafaring terms that may help you navigate around
the ship.
Aft (also “stern”) – Near or at the rear of the ship.
Bow (also “fore” or “forward”) – Near or at the front of the
ship.
Bridge – The command center where the crew navigates the
seas and steers the ship; it’s often high up and toward the bow, and usually
off-limits to passengers.
Cabin (also “stateroom”) – A living/sleeping room or suite
occupied by passengers.
Captain – The top officer, in command of the ship and crew.
Cruise Director – The officer in charge of onboard
entertainment and social events for passengers.
Cruise Terminal – A facility where cruise ships begin and
end passenger cruises, similar to an airport terminal for planes or a station
for trains.
Deck – A floor or level within a cruise ship.
Gangway – A walkway you’ll use to enter and exit the ship.
Galley – The main kitchen on the ship.
Lido – The deck where the pool is located, and often a casual
restaurant as well.
Muster Station – The place you gather with other passengers
in the very rare event of a ship evacuation; each cruise includes a “muster
drill” to show you where your muster station is.
Port – The left side of the ship as you face the bow or
front.
Port of Call – A place your ship visits during your cruise.
Purser – The officer in charge of the finances of the ship
and cruise, who also oversees the guest services desk.
Sea Day – A day the ship does not visit a port of call (a
perfect time to enjoy the ship’s pool, spa, gym and other amenities).
Shore Excursion – Tours and other activities to enjoy onshore while the ship is visiting a port of call.
Starboard – The right side of the ship as you face the bow or front.
Steward (also “cabin attendant”) – A crew member who cleans and
refreshes your cabin twice a day.
Tender – A small boat used to shuttle passengers between the
ship and a dock; used when a ship can’t access a port of call directly and must
anchor a short distance from the dock.
As you plan your next cruise, if you come across any
unfamiliar terminology, just ask Anita, your professional travel advisor to
translate for you.
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel
