Abaft (ABAFT)

Abaft is used to describe the position of something relative to another point on a ship, specifically in the direction of the stern. When an object or space is said to be abaft another, it lies behind it along the vessel’s length. The term is commonly used in navigation, vessel descriptions, and onboard instructions to indicate relative location. For example, accommodation spaces, machinery, or cargo areas may be described as being abaft the bridge or abaft midships. Abaft does not describe distance, only direction, and is always referenced in relation to another feature on the vessel.