The poop deck is an enclosed superstructure located at the stern of a vessel, raised above the main deck. It traditionally houses the captain's cabin and navigation equipment, offering a high vantage point for observing the ship and surrounding water. On large commercial vessels, this aft structure serves as accommodation and a platform for mooring operations.
Heard on the job
Stow those extra mooring lines under the poop deck before we get underway.
Insider tip
The term comes from the French 'la poupe' and Latin 'puppis' meaning stern, and has nothing to do with the plumbing.
Also heard as
- poop deck