What does freeboard mean on a boat?

Boat operators must be able to communicate in the same "language" about the safe operation of a vessel.

That's because it guarantees consistency in the use of terminology, helps avoid miscommunication and will save time in case of an emergency situation.

Now here's a term in which many boaters say they know (sort of like the term draft) -  but do they really?

I'm talking about the boating term - freeboard.

The boating term "freeboard" means: The height of a ship's hull (excluding superstructure) above the waterline. Or, the vertical distance from the current waterline to the lowest point on the highest continuous watertight deck.

You'll hear the word freeboard used every once in a while, but usually from veteran skippers.

Here's a conversation between two boaters at the marina, using the term freeboard.

BRAD: "Hi there. I actually have the same boat as you."

YABU: "Cool. Do you like yours?"

BRAD: "Yes I do, but can I ask you a quick question?"

YABU: "Sure. What's your question?"

BRAD: "Do you know the freeboard distance on our boats?"

YABU: "Funny you ask - I read the manual again last month and I recall our freeboard is 36 inches."

If you are ever on a vessel with a thirty-six inch "freeboard" - there is one thing for sure (depending on the weather), you will feel safe.

That's because some pleasure craft's freeboard's are less than 12 inches, especially those "low riding" speed boats with huge rooster tail wakes.

There is no way you can take those types of boats out in rough water.

Anyway, just remember that freeboard means:

The vertical distance from the current waterline to the lowest point on the highest continuous watertight deck.

Freeboard definition might be on your boating exam so remember it.