What is the term for the body of a vessel?

The term for the body of a vessel is known as the "hull." The hull is the main structure that provides the boat's shape, stability, and buoyancy. It is designed to support the vessel's load and withstand water pressure. Understanding the hull is crucial for recognizing how a boat interacts with water, and it plays a significant role in the vessel's performance and safety.

In contrast, the other terms relate to specific parts or directional aspects of a boat. "Port" refers to the left side of a vessel when facing forward, while "starboard" describes the right side. "Bow" is the front part of the boat. Each of these components is essential for navigation and orientation on the water, but they do not refer to the entire structure of the vessel itself, which is encapsulated by the term "hull."