What Is the Front of a Ship Called? Nautical Terms Explained Simply

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In this post, we are going to look at what the Front Of A Ship is called and why. Cruise ships are huge these days, and it’s, so easy to get lost until you get your bearings. Thus it’s helpful to understand cruise terminology and some basic nautical terms to help you get around the ship.

How many times have you been on a ship when the captain announces over the tannoy that there are dolphins on the starboard side at the bow? I have to rely on the flow of people to get me to the right destination. And if you are a crossword fan, “What is the front of the ship?” is a common question.

Credit Sarah Christie

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Or when the captain announces free cocktails on the top lounge at the bow? I mean considering factors like this its an important to remember where the front and back are on a cruise ship. Yes life would be easier if the captain said front and back, but they use nautical terms and its us who needs to adapt to that. It’s also important to be able to remember port and starboard.

What Is The Front Of A Ship Called

The front of a ship, in our case, a cruise ship, is called the Bow, also known as the forward of the ship; this is the very front part or the most forward point of a cruise ship. The bow is almost pointed in design, thus cutting through the water to create a streamlined passage through.

Why Is The Front Of The Ship Called The Bow?

It is thought the front of ships got the name bow as in Medieval ships the planks used to build the ship had to be bent or bow shaped to ensure the ships would slice through the water easier.

Teens outdoor area on Disney Cruise Line, the front of a cruise ship
Credit Disney Cruise Line

Ways To Remember Bow And Stern On A Ship?

How To Remember The Bow

  • If you were pulling a bow and arrow you would shoot forwards, so bow is forwards.
  • Forwards, going forward has to be the front right.
  • Also when shooting a bow, you are leaning forwards.
  • Remember the rhyme Billy Bow stands at the front. (That ones for the kiddies)
Water slides on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas
Credit Royal Caribbean

And How To Remember The Stern Is At The Back Of A Ship?

  • I used to tell my kids to remember; Stern Stand stands and the back, that seemed to work!
  • Whilst the aft sounds like after, which is always behind the front. So aft, at the back.
Back of Icon of the Seas Royal CAribbeans New Ship
Credit Royal Caribbean

In conclusion, there is a lot of cruise jargon, some of which is easier to understand than others. However, it’s worth getting to know cruise terms if you are planning on booking a cruise. It really helps you navigate cruise life more successfully if you have an idea of what’s going on around you.

What is the front of a ship called

Author

  • Sarah Christie is a passionate family travel expert. With years of experience exploring the world by sea, Sarah specialises in helping families plan unforgettable cruise holidays with practical tips, honest reviews, and insider advice. From navigating mega ships with little ones to finding the best family-friendly excursions, she’s on a mission to make cruising stress-free and magical for all ages. Now that her children are grown up, Sarah is also embracing a new chapter of cruising as a couple, exploring adult-only experiences, romantic escapes, and bucket-list destinations with a fresh perspective.

    She also co-hosts the popular Magically Cruising Podcast, where she shares cruise news, destination insights, and first-hand experiences to inspire both first-time cruisers and seasoned sailors.

    Contact me on travelingchristie@gmail.com

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