Parts of the Ship

Bow

The very front of the ship

Stern

The very rear of the ship

Hull and Main Structure

The watertight body of the ship that keeps the vessel afloat. Every other structural component connects to or sits within the hull. Modern hulls are typically constructed from steel, designed to withstand constant exposure to seawater and varying weather conditions.

Keel

The backbone of the ship running along the bottom centerline from bow to stern. The keel provides structural integrity, support the entire ship structure, and prevents the vessel from drifting sideways in strong currents. The keel also helps distribute loads along the ship’s length and is critical for vessel stability.

Bulkheads

Vertical watertight walls inside the hull that divide the ship into separate compartments. Bulkheads enhance structural strength and contain flooding to isolated sections during emergencies

Midships/Amidships

The middle section of the ship

Port

The left of the ship when facing forward

Starboard

The right side of the ship when facing forward

Deck

A horizontal floor on the ship

Bridge

Platform above the main deck where navigation and control are managed

Galley

The ship’s kitchen

Head

The ship’s restroom

Helm

The wheel or tiller that controls the rudder

Bilge

The curved lower part of the hull

Superstructure

Structures built above the main deck

Beam

The widest part of the ship

Aloft

Above or on top of the deck

Underway

When the vessel is in motion, not anchored or moored