Cockpit

A recessed or enclosed working area from which a small craft is commonly steered or operated.

On sailing yachts it often contains the helm, seating, mainsheet or other sail controls; on motorboats it may form the helm and passenger area. Cockpits can be aft, central or forward, open or sheltered, and some boats have more than one.

Coamings, drains or scuppers, access openings and companionway closures affect how water entering the cockpit is managed. A cockpit is not automatically self-draining or protected from downflooding, and loose equipment and control lines must be arranged for safe movement and escape.