Parts of a boat Bow - Stern - Starboard - Port

Bow of a boat

Stern of a boat

The stern of a boat is its rear section, opposite the bow. It’s where the engine, rudder, and transom are usually located, providing propulsion and steering control. The stern’s design affects the boat’s stability, handling, and wake, and often includes seating, swim platforms, or access ladders.

Boat hull

The main body of a vessel from the deck down. It does not include rigging, superstructure, machinery, or equipment.

Freeboard of a boat

The distance from the waterline to the upper deck level, measured at the lowest point of sheer, where water can enter the boat or ship.

Propeller

A propeller is a rotating device with blades that converts an engine’s power into thrust, pushing a boat through the water. As the blades spin, they create pressure differences that move the vessel forward or backward. Propellers are essential for speed, maneuverability, and efficient propulsion in power-driven boats.

Rudder

A rudder is a flat, movable blade located at a boat’s stern, used for steering. When turned by the helm or tiller, it redirects water flow, causing the vessel’s bow to change direction and helping maintain course or execute turns.

Transom

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

Gunwale

The gunwale, is the top edge of the hull of a ship or boat.

What is the difference between gunwale and gunnel?

With the frequent pronunciation of 'gunnel' (similar to funnel), it has now become an accepted alternate spelling, reflecting the evolving language usage.

Cleat

A cleat is a sturdy metal or nylon fitting on a boat or dock used to secure ropes or lines. It typically has two projecting arms around which a line is wrapped in a figure-eight pattern to hold the vessel in place safely.

Deck of a boat

The deck of a boat is the flat, horizontal surface that forms the main floor or platform of the vessel. It provides space for passengers, crew, and equipment, while also strengthening the hull and protecting interior compartments from water and weather.

Ballast

Ballast is the extra weight you add to the boat to make it heavier so it displaces more water, which helps create a larger wake for surfing or wakeboarding. 

Bilge

Located at the lowest point inside a boat, the bilge serves as a reservoir for collecting excess water. Equipped with a pump, this essential component works to eliminate accumulated water ensuring a dry and safe vessel.

Bimini

A Bimini is a canvas or composite (hard) top that is affixed to a boat  that provides shade and protection from the sun and rain.

Navigation lights

wake  

Stand-on vessel

A stand-on vessel is the boat that has the right of way under navigation rules. It must maintain its course and speed when approaching another vessel to allow the give-way vessel to take action and avoid a collision. However, the stand-on vessel must still act if danger develops.

Give-way vessel

A give-way vessel is the boat that must take early and clear action to avoid a collision when approaching another vessel. It must alter course, slow down, or stop to safely pass, yielding to the designated stand-on vessel under navigation rules.

Pleasure craft

Means a boat, a ship, a vessel, or any other description of a water craft that is used exclusively for pleasure, and does not carry passengers or goods for hire, reward, remuneration or any object of profit.

Power-driven vessel

A power-driven vessel is any boat or ship propelled by mechanical means, such as an engine or motor, rather than by wind or paddles. It includes motorboats, yachts, and ships that rely on fuel or electricity for movement and navigation control.

Sailboat 

A sailboat is a watercraft propelled mainly by wind using one or more sails mounted on masts. It converts wind energy into forward motion through the sails, allowing navigation across lakes, rivers, or oceans with minimal engine or manual power.

Paddleboard

A paddle board is a wide, buoyant board used for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) — a water sport where the rider stands, kneels, or sits on the board and propels forward using a long, single-bladed paddle. Paddle boards offer balance, fitness, and fun on lakes, rivers, and coastal waters for all skill levels.

VHF

VHF stands for Very High Frequency, referring to the radio frequency range between 30 and 300 megahertz (MHz). In boating, VHF marine radios are used for communication, navigation, and emergency calls, allowing vessels to contact other boats, marinas, and the Coast Guard on designated marine channels.

How does a boat float

A boat floats because of buoyancy, the upward force exerted by water that opposes gravity. When a boat’s hull displaces a volume of water equal to its weight, the buoyant force keeps it afloat. Its shape and air-filled interior lower its overall density below that of water.

Marine sanitation device

A Marine Sanitation Device (MSD) is equipment installed on boats to treat, store, or dispose of sewage safely. Required by law on many vessels, MSDs prevent pollution by either holding waste in tanks or treating it before discharge in compliance with environmental regulations and no-discharge zones.

All types of boat

Boats come in many types, each designed for specific purposes. Sailboats use wind power and sails for propulsion, while powerboats rely on engines. Fishing boats are equipped for catching fish, and pontoon boats provide stable platforms for leisure and family outings. Kayaks and canoes are human-powered, ideal for calm waters. Jet boats and personal watercraft (PWCs) use jet propulsion for speed and maneuverability. Houseboats offer living accommodations, and dinghies serve as small tenders or recreational craft. Yachts combine luxury and performance, often for cruising or racing. Each type suits different environments, from lakes to oceans.