The first continuous row of planks or steel plates laid along the bottom of a ship's hull, mating directly with the keel. Because it sits at the lowest point of the bilge, it is subjected to the highest water pressure and collects the most internal corrosive moisture. In wooden ships, it is fastened into the keel's rabbet and is notoriously difficult to fit and caulk.
Heard on the job
The caulking in the garboard strake is failing, which explains the constant water in the bilge.
Insider tip
If a wooden boat has been sitting on the hard for years, the garboard strake is usually the first place to check for rot and sprung fasteners.
Also heard as
- garboard