1.1 The Stern
The stern is the aftmost section of a merchant vessel.
Engine Room and Propellers
The beating heart of the vessel lies deep within the stern – the engine room. This cavernous space houses the massive diesel engines that generate the power needed to drive the ship.
The engine room also contains vital auxiliary equipment, ensuring smooth operation and safety.
The power from the engines is transferred through the propeller shaft, a robust steel shaft that runs from the engine room to the stern.
At the end of the shaft lies the propeller, a large rotating set of blades that pushes against the water, propelling the ship forward. Some vessels may have multiple propellers for increased manoeuvrability or power.
Rudder and Steering room
The rudder, a large, flat plate positioned behind the propeller, acts as the ship's underwater steering mechanism. By turning the rudder, the captain can control the direction of the water flow from the propeller, causing the ship to turn.
The rudder is connected to the rudder stock, a vertical shaft that extends upwards from the rudder into the stern.
The steering room, located on the bridge or a dedicated deck near the stern, is the command centre for navigation. Here, the helmsman uses the wheel or joystick to control the rudder stock, translating the captain's course corrections into precise rudder movements.
The working decks at the stern often include the quarter deck, located aft of the superstructure, and the poop deck, the uppermost deck at the stern. These decks may house various equipment depending on the specific vessel.
Cargo handling gear, winches, and mooring equipment might be found here, facilitating operations like loading supplies or securing the ship to a dock.
Bridge and Accommodation
The bridge, typically situated on the upper superstructure at the stern (or amidships on some vessels), serves as the captain's command centre. From here, the captain and crew have a clear view of the surroundings, allowing for safe navigation and manoeuvring.
The stern section may also house crew or passenger accommodation. These cabins provide living quarters for those who operate and travel on the vessel.
Funnel and Other Features
The funnel, also known as the smokestack, is a tall structure that vents exhaust gases from the engine room. While not exclusive to the stern, it is a prominent feature on many merchant vessels.
The stern may also house the skeg, a fin-like structure that supports the propeller shaft and improves propeller efficiency.
The flat transverse plate at the aftmost point of the stern is the transom.