Nautical Term: Well deck

Definition of Well deck

A well deck is a sunken deck area situated between the forecastle and various aft structures on a merchant vessel. These structures include a long poop or continuous bridge house, or raised quarter deck.

For example, imagine a large container ship. The area forward of the cargo holds is occupied by the forecastle, crew quarters, and navigation bridge. Aft of the cargo holds is the engine room, machinery spaces, and aft accommodations.

The well deck, if present, would be located between the forecastle and the aft structures. It could be used for various purposes such as loading and stowing cargo, launching and recovering boats or landing craft, or even as a temporary shelter for crew or passengers.

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