Above Deck

The exposed or upper part of a vessel situated on or above its weather deck.

The phrase distinguishes deck-level and superstructure spaces or equipment from accommodation, machinery and storage below deck. What counts as above deck depends on the vessel’s layout and the particular deck being referenced.

People working above deck are exposed to weather, vessel motion, low booms, lines under load and the risk of falling overboard. Appropriate clothing, handholds, clipping-on arrangements and deck procedures depend on conditions and vessel practice.