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Boat terminology

What is 'freeboard'?

Short answer

The height of the deck above the waterline

Freeboard is the vertical distance from the waterline to the top of the deck (gunwale). A vessel with low freeboard is closer to the water and more susceptible to waves coming aboard.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom and general recreational seamanship; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

What is 'freeboard'?