Nautical Term: Well

Definition of Well

The term ‘Well’ refers to the enclosed space situated between the initial bulkhead of a long poop deck or deck house, and the fore-castle’s bulkhead. This compartment often remains concealed from view, as it lies beneath the upper decks and structures of the vessel.

Example: During the storm, the crew was forced to secure the anchors and batten down the hatches. As they worked, they heard strange noises coming from the ‘Well’ – the compartment situated below the upper deck structures and concealed from view. As they later discovered, the ‘Well’ had flooded during the storm, causing extensive damage to the vessel’s electrical and mechanical systems.

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