basic boat parts explained The bow is the front of the boat, designed to cut through water and reduce resistance, while the stern refers to the rear. Running along the bottom center of the hull is the keel, which provides balance and prevents the vessel from drifting sideways. The deck forms the top surface of the boat where passengers can walk or sit, and the gunwale is the upper edge that strengthens the boat’s sides and provides a place to attach ropes or cleats. Visit: https://nvdcrenewal.us/basics-....explained-boat-part-