Boat parts

Boat parts

All across the country, boating is growing in popularity as people discover the fun and enjoyment that this recreational pastime offers. Although boating provides hours of enjoyment, it can also be very dangerous if the participants are not aware of the safety factors that must be considered. It is the intent of this curriculum to lay out the basics that must be considered in order to make your boating experience a pleasant one.

Bow of the boat

The forward part of a boat.

Stern of the boat

The after part of the boat.

Port side of the boat

Port refer to the left side of the boat when looking forward, toward the bow of a boat.

Starboard side of the boat

Starboard refer to the right side of the boat when looking forward, toward the bow of a boat.

The beam of a boat

The beam is the greatest width of the boat.

Freeboard

The minimum vertical distance from the surface of the water to the gunwale.

Cockpit

A cockpit is a name for the location of controls of a vessel.

Waterline

Waterline is the line where the hull of a ship meets the surface of the water (waterline).

Draft

Draft is the depth of water a boat draws

Propeller

Propeller is a type of fan that transmits power by converting rotational motion into thrust.

Rudder

A rudder is a primary control surface used to steer a boat, that moves through water.

Cabin of a boat

A cabin or berthing is an enclosed space on a boat.

Dashboard of a boat

The dashboard is an instrument panel in a boat.

Transom

The transom is the area of the boat where the motor is attached. The transom is located on the stern of the boat.

Cleat

A cleat is a kind of hook with two ends which is used to hold ropes, especially on boats.

Swin Platform

A swim platform is a structure on the stern of a boat designed to make getting in and out of the water easier.

Navigation lights

A set of lights shown by a ship at night to indicate its position and orientation, especially with respect to other vessels.

Keel

Keel is the centerline of a boat running fore and aft; the backbone of a vessel.

Orientation on a boat

Abeam to starboard

At right angles to the keel of the boat, but not on the boat. It means that the object is straight out from the starboard beam.

Abeam to port

At left angles to the keel of the boat, but not on the boat. It means that the object is straight out from the port beam.

Aft of a boat

Also known as astern – is at the rear of the boat, also called the stern. Toward the stern of the boat.

Forward or ahead

Toward the bow of the boat.