The average person might say they want to watch a “movie.” On the other hand, avid cinephiles hardly ever call them movies and opt for “films.” Boating aficionados know their terms as well. Understanding the different parts of the boat prevents you from excusing yourself from a conversation if the discussion turns nautical.
Most Common Terminology
When trying to grasp the different sections of a boat, it’s best to break it into a quadrant. Therefore, when referring to the front and back of the boat, say bow and stern, respectively. Rather than stating which side you’re on, you can say you’re on the vessel’s port (left) or starboard (right) side.
Hull is another term you will often hear around boating enthusiasts. The hull is is the ship’s body.
When trying to find the correct anchor, you’ll need to consider the metal fittings that tie to an anchor’s rope, otherwise known as cleats.
Gunwales are on the edge of the boat and give the hull firmness. The transom is where you will put the outboard motor. Finally, the sidelights are usually red or green and aid your navigation efforts.
Something More Abstract
Now that you know the basic terminology, let’s delve deeper into some other terms you are likely to hear when on board.
The beam is the boat’s width. A large beam suggests the ship is stable. The deeper you go down the boat’s hull, the closer you get to the bilge, which is the ship’s lowest point.
The point where the hull crosses the water’s surface is the waterline, a term which makes sense to the layperson. However aft, or the section near the stern of the boat, and freeboard, the space from the gunwale to the waterline, are not as likely to be part of a layperson’s lexicon. Also, the draft isn’t an ice-cold beverage, it’s the minimum depth in which a boat can float.
Now You’re Ready for the Sea
The odds are you will come across more confusing terms, but knowing these gives you a solid foundation. By understanding the different parts of the boat, you won’t feel lost when others are gabbing about their hulls. Before you know it, you’ll don a skipper’s hat and be ready to take on the world. Yacht Rope is also a good equipment for your boat to manage your boat work.
