What is the term for the strake next to the keel?

The term for the strake next to the keel is known as the garboard strake. This is the first strake of planking or plating that is laid on the keel, which is the central structural element of a ship and runs along the bottom. The garboard strake plays a critical role in the vessel’s hull construction, providing a connection to the keel and helping to form a watertight barrier.

Understanding this terminology is essential for anyone working in marine engineering and shipbuilding, as it relates to the construction and maintenance of a ship's hull. The garboard strake must be carefully attached as it supports the edges of the frames along the bottom of the hull and influences the overall integrity of the hull structure. Proper maintenance, repair, or replacement of this strake is vital to ensure the vessel remains seaworthy.

The other terms listed refer to different parts of the hull or other strakes that are not located next to the keel. For instance, the sheer strake is positioned higher up on the hull, primarily at the deck level. Similarly, side strakes are generally part of the mid-section of the hull, while base strakes are not standardized terms used in conjunction with the keel. Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the