What is a lazarette on a boat?

A lazarette on a boat is a storage compartment located at the stern (rear) of the vessel. It is designed to store equipment that is not needed on a daily basis, such as spare lines, fenders, and other boating gear. The lazarette is usually accessed through a hatch in the deck or a door on the transom of the boat.

The lazarette is typically a watertight compartment, designed to keep water out in case of a leak or other mishaps. It is separated from the rest of the boat by a bulkhead or partition, which also provides additional stability to the vessel.

In some boats, the lazarette also serves as a location for other boat systems, such as the steering gear, fuel tanks, or the generator. In these cases, the compartment may be accessed more frequently during the regular operation of the boat.

Overall, the lazarette is a useful storage area that helps keep clutter off the deck of the boat, improving safety and the overall appearance of the vessel.