How is Length Overall measured on a boat?

Length Overall (LOA) is a critical measurement for a boat that provides important information regarding its size. It is defined as the distance measured from the tip of the bow to the stern, which helps in determining factors such as docking space, trailer requirements, and compliance with regulations.

Measuring from the tip of the bow to the stern captures the boat’s full length in a straight line, ensuring that both the fore and aft sections of the vessel are considered. This measurement can impact various operational and logistical aspects, such as maneuverability, capacity limits, and registration requirements.

In contrast, other measurement definitions, like from the stern to the bow or from the waterline to the highest point, do not fully address the actual overall length of the vessel as required for practical use. Measurements like those from the keel to the top of the deck are specific to other contexts and do not capture the entire length of the boat as LOA is intended.