Aft (AFT)
Also known as: aft, towards the stern, rear
A nautical term indicating a position toward the stern or rear of a vessel.
Aft is used to describe the location of areas, equipment, or activities situated toward the back end of a ship. It provides a directional reference rather than a specific distance and is always understood in relation to the vessel’s orientation. The term is commonly used in navigation, vessel layout descriptions, cargo stowage planning, and operational instructions. Examples include references to aft accommodation, aft cargo spaces, or equipment located aft of midships. Aft helps ensure clear and unambiguous communication when coordinating shipboard operations.
