The boat’s beam is the width or diameter at the boat’s widest point. This measurement is usually taken at or near the waterline, but you can also measure it from side to side of the boat at its widest point.
The beam is an important measurement because it determines how much weight a boat can carry and where you can carry that weight on the boat.
What is the beam of a boat?
A boat’s beam is its width at its widest point: the wider the beam, the more stable the boat. A boat beam is measured from the left side (port) to the right side (starboard) of the boat at its widest point.

How do you measure the beam of a boat?
To measure the beam of a boat, all you will need is a ball of twine, measuring tape, and some duct tape. The first step in measuring the beam is to measure the centerline.
To do this, you will need to find the point where the hull intersects with the deck at the widest part of the boat. Once you have found this point, tie one end of the ball twine to it, and stretch it along the length of the hull until you reach the other side.
Once you have reached the other side, use the measuring tape to measure how long the string is. This measurement is your boat’s centerline measurement.
The second step in measuring your boat’s beam is to measure the beam itself. To do this, place one end of your measuring tape at each outer edge of your hull and stretch it across until it meets in the middle.
Once you have done this, use your carpenter’s square to ensure your measurements are level, and then use your duct tape to secure them.
Finally, use your measuring tape again to measure from one end of your duct tape to another and record this measurement as your boat’s beam width measurement.

How to use a ruler to measure the beam of a boat?
Place the ruler or measuring tape flat on the ground and measure from one end to the other (this is your baseline).
Next, place something solid that is long and straight (like a broom handle) next to the ruler or measuring tape on one end.
Now, you’re going to measure from one end of the “thing” to the other and mark it on the ruler or measuring tape.
Next, subtract that number from your original baseline measurement (baseline minus broom handle).
The result is the beam of your boat!
How to use a measuring wheel to measure the beam of a boat?
The measuring wheel is a quick and easy way to measure the beam of a boat. A measuring wheel is a device with two rotating disks, one of which has graduated markings. The disk on the bottom rotates and touches points along the edge of the boat’s hull to measure the boat’s beam.
The first step in using the measuring wheel is to lay it down on the boat’s deck with its two wheels parallel to the bow and stern. The two disks of the measuring wheel should be facing away from you, and you should line up the wheel with the boat’s center line.
The next step in using the measuring wheel is to rotate it so that the disk on the bottom touches points along both sides of the hull. You will need to move the wheel back and forth a few inches from the center line until you can feel both wheels touch the hull simultaneously. Mark the point where they touch with a pencil.
Once you have marked two points on each side of your boat, connect them to form a set of parallel lines. Measure the distance between these two lines at several points along your boat.
What are the benefits of measuring the beam of a boat?
Measuring the beam of a boat provides you with important information about your vehicle. You can use this information to determine things like draft and freeboard length.
Additionally, the beam of a boat affects a variety of other aspects of your vehicle, including its weight and handling.
Measuring the beam of a boat is easy and can be done without fancy tools. All you need is a tape measure and someone to help you hold one end of the tape measure while you stretch it out along the length of the boat.
How is boat beam related to boat stability?
A boat’s beam is its width. It affects the stability of a boat in two ways:
First, it determines how much cargo can be carried on deck or below decks.
Second, it influences how quickly a boat heels over and capsizes when hit by waves. The broader the beam, the farther stable the boat is in rough water or during a storm.
What is a typical boat beam length?
Finding a boat beam length is challenging without the exact model information. The typical size for a small motorboat would be about 5 feet, and for an average-sized fishing vessel, it would be about 10 feet.
If you are trying to measure the beam of a boat, it is better to look at the side profile. You should measure the width from one end of the boat hull to another with a tape measure.
What is a pontoon boat beam length?
A pontoon boat beam length is the measurement of the width of a pontoon boat. The wider this distance, the more weight it can carry and maintain stability in water. Beam lengths vary from 8 feet to 18 feet.