What do C and F refer to when tying up a boat?

When discussing the terms C and F in the context of tying up a boat, these letters are often used to designate the breast lines. Breast lines are the lines that run perpendicular to the centerline of the boat and are used to secure the boat to a dock or pier. They help to keep the boat stable by preventing it from moving forward or backward, and they allow for adjustments to be made easily without having to re-tie other lines.

In this scenario, referencing breast lines corresponds to ensuring the vessel remains properly positioned at the dock and is essential for safe mooring practices. Understanding the role of breast lines is important for effective docking and undocking procedures, making them critical for anyone operating a boat.