Boating - Terms and Terminology

Boat Length Classifications

A boat's length class dictates the equipment necessary to comply with federal and state laws.
Boats are divided into four length classes:

• Less than 16 feet (Class A)
• 16 feet to less than 26 feet (Class 1)
• 26 feet to less than 40 feet (Class 2)
• 40 feet to 65 feet (Class 3)

Bow

The forward (front) part of a boat

Hull Identification Number (HIN)

All boats manufactured for sale must have a manufacturer's serial number or Hull Identification Number (HIN). It is unique to your boat. HINs are typically engraved in the fiberglass or on a small metal plate attached to the transom. Record your HIN and put it in a place away from the boat. It can be useful if warranty problems arise or if your boat is lost or stolen.

Port

The left side of a boat looking forward.

Starboard

The right side of the boat when looking forward.

Stern

The back end of a boat.

Wake

Moving waves, track or path that a boat leaves behind it, when moving across the waters.

Water Craft (WC)

All water vessels including boats, sailboats, Personal Watercraft, Jet Ski ® (Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.), Ski-Doo ®(Bombardier Recreational Products) Waverunner ® (Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.), etc.