What is it called to go on a ship?

Setting Sail: More Than Just “Going Aboard”

We often hear the phrase “going aboard” when talking about getting on a ship. While technically correct, the language surrounding maritime travel is rich with nuanced terms that paint a more vivid picture of the experience. Simply saying “going aboard” is like calling a gourmet meal “some food” – accurate, but lacking the flavor of the full description.

While “boarding” or “going aboard” is the general term for stepping onto a vessel, the word “embark” carries a sense of beginning a journey, a grander undertaking than a simple ferry crossing. Embarking suggests an adventure, a purposeful voyage with a destination in mind. Think of explorers embarking on expeditions to uncharted territories, or families embarking on a cruise to tropical paradises.

Beyond these common terms, more specific language can be used depending on the context. “Shipping out” often refers to crew members starting their tour of duty. Historically, it also applied to sailors signing on to merchant vessels. “Setting sail” speaks to the act of the ship itself starting its journey, with sails unfurled and catching the wind – although in modern times, it’s used metaphorically even for engine-powered vessels.

The specific type of vessel can also influence the terminology. You might “embark” on a cruise ship, but “hop aboard” a ferry, or “climb aboard” a smaller boat. Similarly, you might “join” a yacht or “get on” a riverboat. The context and type of vessel often dictate the most natural and evocative phrasing.

So, the next time you’re describing a maritime journey, consider going beyond “going aboard.” Explore the rich vocabulary of seafaring and choose a term that captures the true spirit of the voyage. Are you embarking on an adventure? Shipping out for a tour of duty? Or simply hopping aboard for a quick trip across the water? The right word can make all the difference in conveying the unique experience of travel by sea.