What is the front of a boat called?

The front of a boat is referred to as the bow. This term is universally accepted in the maritime community and denotes the forward section of a vessel. Understanding the terminology is crucial for communication and safety on the water, as various parts of a boat often have specific roles and functions. The bow is designed to cut through the water efficiently and is typically the part of the boat that faces the direction in which the vessel is moving.

In contrast, the stern refers to the rear part of the boat, while starboard indicates the right side and port the left side when facing forward. Familiarity with these terms helps boaters navigate, communicate with others on the water, and understand instructions related to boating safety and operation.