Boats come in many styles and shapes, but the names of the different parts remain consistent. Every boat operator should know the following terms and definitions.
- Beam: Maximum width of a vessel
- Gunwale: Upper edge of a vessel’s side
- Hull: Body of a vessel
- Keel: Main centerline of a vessel, or the extension of the hull that increases stability
- Propeller: Rotates and powers vessel forward or backward
- Draft: Depth of water needed to float a vessel
- Freeboard: Distance from water to lowest point of boat where water could come aboard
- Starboard: Right side of a vessel
- All-Round White Light: Indicates rear of a vessel
- Stern: Rear of a vessel
- Cleat: Metal fitting on which a rope can be fastened
- Port: Left side of a vessel
- Red and Green Sidelights: Directional indicators on front of a vessel
- Bow: Front of a vessel
