What Are the Names of the Parts of a Canoe?

Bow

• The bow is the front end of the canoe and includes the bow seat, where the bow paddler sits.

Stern

• The stern is the rear end of the canoe and includes the stern seat, where the stern paddler sits and does most of the steering.

Hull

• The hull is the body of the canoe. Unlike the ends of the canoe that ride above the water, part of the hull sits below the waterline, providing stability.

Gunwale

• The gunwale is the finished edge or rail that runs along the top of the canoe.

Thwart

• A thwart is a horizontal brace that runs across the canoe. Thwarts provide structural support and maintain the shape of the canoe.