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Choosing between a motorboat, RIB and cruiser depends less on the brand than on your trips, passengers, nights aboard, berth and the documented limits of each specific boat.
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Beam
Beam is a measurement of a vessel’s width. It is commonly given as the maximum width under a specified measurement definition.
Reviewed 05.10.2026 · Version 2 · Scope: General
How to interpret it
The hull, its components, and the measurement convention determine the published figure. Beam contributes to a vessel’s design, but by itself is not enough to assess its stability or behavior.
Example
Hypothetical example: when comparing two specifications, confirm that both give maximum beam before assessing a difference in width. This avoids comparing different measurement criteria.
Why it matters to you
It helps interpret dimensions and the space a vessel requires, alongside length and draft.
Common points of confusion
In this context, it does not refer to a garment sleeve or a graphic artwork. Nor is it a measurement of length or depth.
Documentary sources
Dimensiones y desplazamiento del buque Comisión Europea · 2026-10-05
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