Where is the gunwale located on a boat?

The gunwale is located at the upper edge of the sides of a boat. It serves as a crucial structural component, providing strength and rigidity to the vessel while also serving as a protective barrier against swells and waves that might enter the boat. The term "gunwale" originally comes from "gun-rail," as cannons were often mounted on the upper edge of the sides of boats historically.

Understanding the location of the gunwale is important for safe boating practices, such as when boarding the vessel, as this area is where one might hold on for stability. It also plays a role in certain maneuvers like docking or anchoring, where the upper side of the vessel might interact with other structures or equipment.