Missouri Boating License Flashcards

Vessel Terminology

• Bow: Front of a vessel.
• Stern: Rear of a vessel.
• Starboard: Right side of a vessel.
• Port: Left side of a vessel.
• Hull: Body of a vessel.
• Gunwale: Upper edge of the vessel's side; commonly pronounced "gunnel."
• Cleat: Metal fitting used to fasten a rope.

Boat Components

• Propeller: Rotates to propel a boat forward or backward.
• Beam: The maximum width of a vessel.
• Freeboard: Distance from the waterline to the lowest point where water could enter the boat.
• Draft: Depth of water needed for a vessel to float.
• Keel: Main centerline or backbone of a vessel that enhances stability.

Hull Types

• Hull-Displacement: Designed to push water aside; slower speeds and smooth travel through water. Common in large cruisers and most sailboats.
• Hull-Planing: Rises to glide on top of the water with sufficient power; operates differently at rest and high speeds. Common in small power vessels and personal watercraft.

Boat Operation Modes

• Planing-Displacement Mode: A planing hull operates like a displacement hull at very slow speeds.
• Planing-Plowing Mode: As speed increases, a raised bow reduces visibility and creates a large wake; should be avoided.
• Planing Mode: Occurs when enough power enables the boat to glide on the water; different boats reach this mode at varying speeds.

Measurement and Classification

• Measuring Length Overall: The overall length of a vessel from the tip of the bow to the stern, excluding attachments.
• Length Overall: Actual length of the hull not including any attachments.
• Rudder: A vertical blade used for steering, typically located near the stern.

Classification of Vessels

• Class A: Vessels under 16 feet.
• Class 1: Vessels from 16 feet to less than 26 feet.
• Class 2: Vessels from 26 feet to less than 40 feet.
• Class 3: Vessels from 40 feet to less than 65 feet.

Engine Types

• Outboard Engines: More power per pound than inboard engines; consists of an engine, gear case, and propeller. Predominantly two-stroke but increasingly four-stroke designs are available.