Tuesday, 11 September 2007
Fair winds and following seas
A nautical benison, a benediction of sorts, seen/heard at retirements and other shipmate departures.
'Fair wind' = 'may the wind fill your sails favourably for the duration of your voyage.'
'Following sea' refers to a sea swell that doesn't overtake the ship. It is very difficult to control any boat or ship when the swell overtakes it and shoves it forward, causing the boat to skew broadside-on to the wind and swell. Boats often capsize under such conditions.
Too bad I don't sail.
'Fair wind' = 'may the wind fill your sails favourably for the duration of your voyage.'
'Following sea' refers to a sea swell that doesn't overtake the ship. It is very difficult to control any boat or ship when the swell overtakes it and shoves it forward, causing the boat to skew broadside-on to the wind and swell. Boats often capsize under such conditions.
Too bad I don't sail.
