Topsides

The exterior sides of a vessel’s hull above the waterline.

Topsides extend from the waterline region towards the sheer or deck edge and may include plating, planking or moulded laminate, coatings, rubbing strakes, ports and fittings. The term usually excludes the deck and superstructure.

The actual waterline changes with loading, heel and waves, so part of the topsides may be intermittently immersed. Impact, ultraviolet exposure, corrosion, osmosis, fastener leaks and fender abrasion affect different materials and finishes in different ways.