Gunwale

The upper edge of a boat’s side.

Pronounced ‘gunnel’, the gunwale may be formed by the hull edge itself or finished with an inwale, outwale, rubbing strake or cap rail, depending on construction. On a decked craft the hull-to-deck joint may lie at or near it, but the terms are not always identical.

The gunwale helps stiffen and protect the edge and may carry fittings on some boats. Its ability to take mooring, lifting or personal-safety loads depends on its construction and reinforcement; its position alone does not make it a strong point.