What is the front of the boat commonly referred to?

The front of the boat is referred to as the bow. This term is used universally in nautical terminology to denote the forward section of a vessel. Understanding the parts of a boat is essential for safe navigation and communication on the water. Identifying the bow is crucial, as it helps divers and boaters to orient themselves, especially when giving instructions or discussing locations on the vessel.

In contrast, the term "aft" refers to the rear of the boat, "starboard" designates the right side when facing the bow, and "port" indicates the left side. Each term holds significance for navigation and operational communications at sea, helping to avoid confusion in critical situations.