Parts of a Boat

A stern ending in a substantially flat surface across the vessel’s after end. The transom may support an outboard, boarding platform, rudder fittings or exhausts and can provide interior volume. Shape and immersion influence resistance, following-sea behaviour and drainage.

A sliding fitting that carries a sheet block or other control along a traveller track. On a mainsheet traveller it changes the boom’s lateral position without necessarily changing sheet tension. The car, stops, control lines and bearings must handle dynamic loads and remain free of obstructions.

A rail along which a traveller car moves to vary the position of a loaded control point. It is commonly fitted athwartships for a mainsheet or along the deck for sail controls. Track fastenings and backing structure must support loads across the full travel, including at the end stops.

The halyard that raises and supports the inboard or throat end of a gaff. It is operated with the peak halyard so the gaff rises level and is then set at the required angle. Uneven handling can jam the jaws or impose excessive twist and load.

A gooseneck fitting that can move vertically on a mast track. Its position can tension the luff or accommodate reefing and rig setup on some traditional or small-craft rigs. It must be locked securely and kept aligned because sail and boom loads act through the fitting.

The gradual reduction of buried rope material at the end of a splice. A correct taper spreads the change in stiffness and load over a suitable length instead of creating a hard stress concentration. The pattern must follow the rope manufacturer’s method for the fibre and construction.

A small, strongly constructed sail intended for use in severe weather. Storm jibs and trysails reduce sail area while maintaining control and balance when ordinary sails are unsuitable. They need dedicated strong attachment points, accessible stowage and practice before conditions make rigging dangerous.

A sealing arrangement around a rotating propeller shaft where it passes through the hull or stern tube. Types include packed glands, lip seals and mechanical face seals, each with specific lubrication, cooling and adjustment needs. Leakage, heat and wear must be monitored because failure can admit substantial water.