Glossary of Sailing Terms

Gudgeon

A ring or tube on the back of the boat used to attach the rudder. A boat usually has two gudgeons.

Pintle

A pin on the rudder that attaches it to the boat and acts as a hinge. There are usually two pintles.

Rudder

The flat board at the back of the boat for steering.

Tiller

The handle attached to the rudder.