Stern

The rear or aft-most part of a vessel.

The stern is opposite the bow and includes the after end of the hull and associated structure. Its form may be transom, counter, canoe, cruiser or another design and influences resistance, buoyancy, handling, wake and usable deck or accommodation space.

Steering gear, propulsion, boarding arrangements, navigation lights and safety equipment are often located near the stern, but none is universal. Visibility astern, wash, propellers, exhausts, low freeboard and lines under load create operational hazards that depend on the particular vessel.