Transom

The structural surface or framing forming the after end of a hull.

A transom is commonly flat or slightly curved and may be vertical, raked or stepped. It can carry an outboard engine, rudder fittings, boarding platform, drains, exhausts or other equipment when designed and reinforced for those loads.

Not every vessel has a transom; canoe, counter and other stern forms close differently. Penetrations, core damage, cracking, fasteners and low openings require inspection because the transom contributes to hull strength and watertight integrity.