Choosing The Best Seat On A Boat

When it comes to choosing the best section of a boat to stay in, there are a few options to consider: the front, the middle, or the back. Each section has its own advantages and disadvantages that can cater to different preferences. The front of a boat, known as the bow, offers unique views similar to what the captain sees when pulling into port or sailing towards the sea. It often provides more space and can be appealing to those who enjoy feeling connected to the sway of the seas. However, it is prone to more movement and can be affected by wind and sea spray. The back of a boat, referred to as the stern or aft, boasts uninterrupted views of the ocean and the ship's wake. Aft cabins also tend to be quieter and provide larger decks. However, they may experience more movement and vibrations from the engine. Lastly, the middle or midship section offers a more stable ride with less movement and easier access to amenities. It is ideal for those with mobility issues or looking to minimise motion sickness. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences for views, space, stability, and proximity to various boat amenities.

Anchoring

• Determine the water depth where you want to drop anchor.
• Calculate the correct amount of anchor scope. A 7:1 or 8:1 ratio is recommended.
• Ease the throttle so that the boat is almost stationary at the point where you want to drop anchor.
• Head into the wind or current at a dead-slow speed, beyond the spot where you want the boat to lie, at a distance equal to your estimated scope. Come to a stop.
• Let out enough scope, then secure the rope to a bow cleat. Do not tie off an anchor to the stern of a boat, as this can cause the boat to capsize and sink.
• Check that the anchor is not dragging. Use landmarks or onboard electronics to measure movement.
• If needed, reset the anchor.
• To retrieve the anchor, slowly motor towards it while pulling in the rope.

Some additional factors to keep in mind when anchoring a boat:

• Choose an area clear of boats and underwater obstacles. Check your chart for any cables, wrecks or obstructions on the bottom.
• Lower the anchor slowly. Do not throw it over the side as this can tangle the line.
• Keep tension in the anchor rode to keep the bow of the boat pointed towards the anchor.
• Be courteous of other boaters. Choose your spot carefully to allow enough room for other boats.
• Know the bottom structure. Different types of anchors work best for different bottom conditions.
• Use a properly sized anchor for your boat. Check the manufacturer's guide for recommendations.

Bow

The bow is the forward part of the hull of a ship or boat, and is usually the most forward when the vessel is underway. The bow is associated with the forward direction of the boat and is the part that normally faces the waves or current. The term "bow" comes from the Middle Dutch "boech" or Old Norse "bogr" (shoulder). The forward part of the bow is called the "stem" or "forestem".

The bow has a more pointed and tapered shape compared to the stern, with an upward slope as its main function is to cut through the water, thus reducing drag to help the boat navigate. Its pointed shape helps to split the water and decrease friction, allowing the boat to move more efficiently. The shape of the bow may vary depending on the type of boat and the waters being navigated. For example, a flared bow is ideal to reduce the amount of water shipped over the bow.

At the bow, you can typically find elements such as the hull, anchor, winch, booms, and raised platforms. Cruisers in forward cabins enjoy being the first to see what lies ahead when sailing into a new port. Many cruise lines reserve their forward spaces for unique cabin layouts that offer panoramic ocean views. Forward cabins are also more convenient for accessing the ship's theatre, which is usually located at the front.

However, there are some drawbacks to staying in the forward cabins. These cabins are more prone to seasickness as they are the first to dip into rough seas, even on lower decks. They can also be noisier due to the sound of bow thrusters (the ship's propulsion devices) and water hitting the front of the vessel. Additionally, the wind can be stronger at the front of the ship, affecting the comfort of outdoor spaces.

Stern

The stern is the back or aft-most part of a ship or boat. The term originally referred only to the aft port section of the ship, but eventually came to refer to the entire rear of a vessel. The stern lies opposite the bow, which is the front of the ship.

History

The sterns of European and American wooden sailing ships in the 15th to 18th centuries began with two principal forms: the square or transom stern, and the elliptical, fantail, or merchant stern. The stern of a traditional sailing ship often housed the captain's quarters and became increasingly large and elaborate during this period, especially in the baroque era.

In 1817, British naval architect Sir Robert Seppings introduced the concept of a rounded stern, which was intended to address the vulnerability of the square stern to enemy cannon fire and its inability to support the weight of heavy stern chase guns. However, this design left the rudder head exposed and was considered unsightly, leading to the development of the elliptical stern.

There are several styles of sterns, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Flat transom: This type of stern looks like a semicircle from the rear and has a broad vertical face.
• Canoe transom: The rounded shape of canoe transoms makes them more aerodynamic and helps push water away from the rear of the boat.
• Reverse transom: This style offers an angular shape and often includes steps or a platform for disembarking, along with handrails and swim steps.
• Raked transom: This style is commonly found on racing boats as it streamlines their movement through the water. Boats with raked sterns tend to have longer bows.

The stern of a boat typically includes the following features:

• Transom: The cross-section of the stern where an outboard motor can be attached.
• Cleats: Metal fittings on the top of the boat used for securing ropes or cables when docking.
• Navigation lights: These lights are usually red and green sidelights and an all-around white light, specifically for powerboats.
• Engines: Many boats have their engines at the stern, although some use this space for seating or storage.

Choosing a Stern Style

When choosing a stern style, there are several factors to consider, such as width, open cockpits, and other utility features:

• Width and Stability: Wider sterns provide more buoyancy and can be advantageous for towing dinghies or watersport equipment.
• Open Cockpits: An open cockpit can provide an easy entryway for passengers and better access to the water for swimming or watersports. However, a more closed-off cockpit may be preferable for navigating rough waters.
• Utility Features: The stern should have secure hardware for attaching sails, mooring, dock lines, and watersport equipment.

Hull

The hull is the watertight body of a boat or ship. The shape of the hull is dependent on the needs of the design, and there are many different types.

The two main categories of hulls are displacement hulls and planing hulls. Displacement hulls are supported by buoyancy and move through the water, while planing hulls ride on top of the water at higher speeds.

Sailing boats, slow-moving boats, and large boats like cruise ships have displacement hulls. These hulls are usually round-bottomed, with ballast placed low in the centre. Round-bottomed hulls are designed to move smoothly through the water with little effort, but they are less stable in the water and can capsize more easily.

Smaller, faster boats like powerboats or personal watercraft typically have planing hulls. There are several types of planing hulls:

• Flat-bottomed: Very stable and can carry a heavier load, but they can ride rough and wet in heavy weather.
• V-shaped: Cut through waves and ride smoothly in choppy water. They require more power to push up onto a plane and tend to roll or bank in sharp turns.
• Tri-hull or tunnel hull: Stable and buoyant, with good volume below and significant deck space above. They tend to pound when they encounter choppy water.
• Pontoon: All about deck space, making them excellent for families and entertaining. Newer tritoons can carry large outboards and are capable of towing for water sports.

In addition to these main categories, there are also semi-displacement hulls, which combine elements of displacement and planing hulls. These hulls generate large bow and stern waves and may need high-horsepower engines to get on plane.

Deck

The deck is an important part of a boat or ship, referring to the outdoor space on a vessel where people can gather, relax, and enjoy the sea breeze and views. Decks are usually open and located on the topmost part of the ship, providing a spacious area for various activities and offering a unique perspective of the surrounding water.

When it comes to choosing the best section of the boat—forward (front), midship (middle), or aft (rear)—for the deck, there are several factors to consider. Each section offers distinct advantages and drawbacks that cater to different preferences and needs. Let's delve into the characteristics of each area:

Forward Deck:

The forward deck, situated at the front of the ship, provides passengers with a unique vantage point as the vessel sails into new ports and destinations. It offers unobstructed views of the horizon, creating a sense of adventure and exploration. This section is ideal for those who want a front-row view of the journey and don't mind the added motion that comes with being at the front of the ship. The forward deck is also a good choice for those who want quick access to the theatre, as most cruise ship theatres are located in the forward section. However, it's important to consider that this area can be noisier due to the sound of bow thrusters and water hitting the vessel. Additionally, forward-facing decks may be more susceptible to wind and sea spray, making them less comfortable for those seeking a tranquil experience.

Midship Deck:

The midship deck, as the name suggests, is located in the middle portion of the ship. This area is known for providing the smoothest ride, with the least amount of motion felt by passengers. It is ideal for those who are prone to seasickness or prefer a more stable and calm experience. The midship deck is also centrally located, offering easy access to various ship amenities and reducing the walking distance to different parts of the vessel. This can be especially beneficial for those with mobility issues. However, it's worth noting that the midship deck may be closer to high-traffic areas, such as bars, lounges, and pools, which can result in higher levels of noise and activity.

Aft Deck:

The aft deck, positioned at the rear of the ship, offers several advantages for passengers. This section is known for its sweeping, uninterrupted ocean views, providing a captivating sight of the ship's wake trailing behind. The aft deck often features larger spaces, including wraparound balconies, that offer expansive vistas and a sense of openness. It tends to be quieter, as it is farther from the midship buzz. However, it's important to consider that the aft deck may experience more movement than the midship deck, and it can be susceptible to engine or anchor vibrations, which can increase the sense of motion. Additionally, the proximity to the engine room may result in some extra noise and vibrations, especially on the lower decks.

In summary, each section of the boat—forward, midship, and aft—offers unique advantages for passengers. The forward deck provides unobstructed views and a sense of adventure, the midship deck offers the smoothest ride and easy access to amenities, while the aft deck boasts sweeping ocean views and often larger spaces. When choosing the best section, it's important to consider factors such as motion sickness, desired level of activity and noise, and personal preferences for views and experiences. Ultimately, the "best" section depends on your individual priorities and what you value most during your time on the boat.

Frequently asked questions