We asked, what does “nibbling” mean and where did the term originate?

Nibbling, typically  refers to taking small bites out of a tasty treat, but in the sailing world it refers to the pointed shapes of the ends of certain deck planks.

According to John G. Rogers’ Origins of Sea Terms these pointed ends are made to fit either the kingplank or the covering boards.  The origins come from the Anglo-Saxon nebb, beak.

Today’s challenge is: Nibbling. Do you know what this phrase means and how it originated?

Sailing Lingo aims to test your knowledge of the peculiar and sometimes indecipherable language of sailing. We pose a question and see who can answer it most accurately in the comments on the post. The following day we’ll post the answer to the question and save you some Googling.

In response to our Facebook request, guest Harriet Hall sent in these lovely nighttime photos from her crossing aboard Royal Clipper.

If you’re not a Facebook fan of Star Clipper, become one by clicking on the Facebook icon on the left of this page under “Follow Us.”

Curu contains Costa Rica’s first private national wildlife refuge. Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula, the area offers easy access to see some of the most sought-after species such as howler and spider monkeys, scarlet macaws, collared peccary, coyotes, iguanas and hundreds of species of tropical and migratory birds. An almost-extinct species of oyster (Ocypode occidentalis) can be found here, as well as lobsters, chitons and mouthless crabs. All five of Costa Rica’s mangrove species are represented in Curu. The refuge is one of the few places in Central America where agriculture, scientific research and tourism exist in harmony.

Star Flyer will call at Curu on the seven-night round-trip Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica, cruises beginning November 2010.

Ever wondered what the view is like from the bow net? Check out this video we came across.