What is defined as the bottom of the vessel's hull structure located along the centre line?

The keel is a crucial structural element of a vessel’s design, as it serves as the backbone of the hull, running along the center line from the bow to the stern. It provides stability and aids in the vessel's overall balance in the water. The keel is essential for keeping the boat upright and can help prevent capsizing. It also plays a key role in hydrodynamics by improving the boat's ability to move through water, affecting its speed and maneuverability.

Other terms, such as stern and bow, refer to the ends of the boat, with the stern being the back and the bow being the front. The port side is simply the left side when facing the bow and does not relate to the structure of the hull itself. Understanding the keel's importance in vessel design enhances your knowledge of how boats operate and remain safe on the water.