Aft

The rear or stern section of a vessel, towards the back of the boat or ship.

Aft is a directional term used to describe the position or movement towards a vessel’s stern (the back). It is one of the fundamental terms used to orient oneself on a boat or ship, alongside others like forward (towards the bow), port (left side when facing forward), and starboard (right side when facing forward). The term aft can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing the location of specific parts of the vessel (e.g., “the aft deck” or “the aft cabin”) or indicating movement (e.g., “move aft”). 

In larger vessels, the aft section often houses critical components such as the engine room, steering gear, or crew quarters, depending on the vessel’s design. In sailing vessels, the aft area may also be where the helm (steering wheel or tiller) is located, allowing the captain or helmsman to steer the ship. The aft portion of a vessel is crucial for maintaining balance and stability, and its design can significantly impact the vessel’s handling and performance in the water.