A bulbous extension protruding below the waterline at the forefoot of a vessel. By creating its own wave system that cancels out the primary bow wave, the bulb significantly reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. It is a standard feature on large commercial ships like freighters and tankers.
Heard on the job
The tug needs to stay clear of the bulb while we maneuver into the slip.
Also heard as
- bulbous bow