What Is the Topsides?

The topsides are the side hull surface above the waterline; the left side is called port and the right side starboard. It is the boat’s visible face and a shop window for how it is valued: gelcoat gloss, scratches and yellowing show up here first.

The topsides also take the physical strain of berth and neighbouring-boat contact if the fendering arrangement is inadequate. The most common issues are oxidation (dulling under the sun), black fender marks and yellowing on the aft-side lower band (kekamoz).

Keeping the topsides in shape

• The cheapest maintenance is proper berthing: enough fenders plus the right tension will protect what polish cannot.

• Act early: contact marks and scratches are removed before they become permanent.

• When it comes to gloss: use the lightest treatment necessary; unnecessary compounding takes away gelcoat life.

The port-starboard distinction is not just a matter of appearance, but part of seafaring language itself: expressions such as 'borda bordaya bağlamak' (lying alongside) come from here.