Boating is all about navigation and understanding the different terminologies used on boats is important for a safe journey and effective communication among crew members. Three such terms that are used commonly are aft, bow, and stern.
Aft refers to the rear section of a boat. It is the opposite of the bow and is usually towards the end of the boat where the engine is located. When you hear someone say “head aft”, this means to move towards the back of the boat. Some boats are classified based on their length aft – such as aft cabin boats where the cabin is located at the back of the boat and aft cabin cruisers that are bigger and more comfortable.
Bow, on the other hand, refers to the front section of the boat. It is the opposite of the aft and usually facing the direction of travel for the boat. When you hear someone say “drop anchor from the bow”, it means to anchor the boat from the front section. The term “bow thruster” refers to a motorized device at the front of the boat designed to control the movement of the boat.
Stern, also known as the transom, refers to the back of the boat. It is the flat surface at the aft end of the boat, and the rudder and propulsion system are usually located in this section. When you hear someone say “the boat was damaged on the stern”, it means the back part of the boat was damaged. Many boats are equipped with a swim platform, which is an extension of the stern that makes it easier to get into and out of the water.
Understanding the difference between aft, bow, and stern is important for anyone involved in boating. Knowing these terms will enable you to communicate effectively with your crew members, maneuver your boat effectively, and maintain the overall safety of your vessel. Knowing the layout of your boat and the terminology will make for a stress-free boating experience. So, if you are a beginner, start practicing now and always use these terms accurately while on board!