FENDER-PILES. In a dock, &c.
FENDERS. Two pieces of oak-plank fayed edgeways against the top-sides, abreast the main hatchway, to prevent the sides being chafed by the hoisting of things on board. They are not wanted where the yard-tackles are constantly used. Also, pieces of old cable, or other materials, hung over the side to prevent it from chafing against a wharf; as also to preserve a small vessel from being damaged by a large one. The fenders of a boat are usually made of canvas, stuffed, and neatly painted.
FEND OFF, To. In order to avoid violent contact, is, by the application of a spar, junk, rattans, &c., to prevent one vessel running against another, or against a wharf, &c. Fend off, with the boat-hook or stretchers in a boat.—Fend the boat, keep her from beating against the ship's side.
FERNAN BAG. A small ditty-bag, often worn by sailors, for holding tobacco and other things. They have applied the term to the pouches in monkeys' cheeks, where they carry spare food.
FERRARA. A species of broadsword, named after the famous Spanish sword-smith, Andrea Ferrara.
FERRIAGE. An old right of the admiralty over all rivers between the sea and the first bridges.
FERRY. A passage across a river or branch of the sea by boat.
FERRY-BOATS. Vessels or wherries duly licensed for conveying passengers across a river or creek.
FETCH, To. To reach, or arrive at; as, "we shall fetch to windward of the lighthouse this tack."
FETCH HEAD-WAY or Stern-way. Said of a vessel gathering motion ahead or astern.