Hull

The watertight body or shell of a boat or ship, excluding the deck, rigging, and other superstructures.

The hull is the fundamental structure of any vessel, designed to provide buoyancy and stability while keeping the water out. It is the part of the boat that makes contact with the water, and its shape and construction are critical to the vessel’s performance, speed, and handling. Hulls can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, steel, aluminium, or fibreglass, depending on the type of vessel and its intended use. The design of the hull varies significantly between different types of boats, with some being flat-bottomed for stability in calm waters, while others are V-shaped or have a deep keel to cut through waves and improve performance in rougher seas.

The hull is divided into different sections, including the bow (front), stern (back), and sides. The underwater portion of the hull is often referred to as the “underbody” or “bottom,” while the part above the waterline is known as the “topsides.” The hull’s design directly affects the vessel’s hydrodynamics, determining how easily it moves through the water, how much drag it experiences, and how stable it is in various conditions. In larger vessels, the hull may also include internal compartments for ballast, cargo, or machinery. Proper maintenance of the hull is essential to prevent damage from corrosion, fouling, or impact, ensuring the vessel remains seaworthy and efficient.