Glossary of Sailing Terms
SOG (Speed Over Ground)
The actual speed of the boat relative to the ground, factoring in currents and other influences.
COG (Course Over Ground)
The actual direction the boat is moving over the ground, considering the combined effects of wind, current, and steering.
Heading
The direction the bow of the boat is pointing, measured in degrees relative to true or magnetic north.
TWA (True Wind Angle)
The angle between the boat's heading and the true wind direction, measured clockwise from the bow.
TWS (True Wind Speed)
The actual speed of the wind, independent of the boat's motion.
TWD (True Wind Direction)
The direction the wind is coming from, measured relative to true north.
Speed
The velocity of the boat as it moves through the water, measured relative to the water's surface.