What is the term for the amount of canoe above the waterline?

The term that describes the amount of canoe above the waterline is known as freeboard. Freeboard is a critical measurement in boating, as it refers to the vertical distance between the waterline and the upper edge of the boat's side. This measurement is vital for ensuring safety; it helps determine how much a vessel can safely be loaded without risking that water might come over the sides in rough conditions.

In contrast, draft refers to the vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the hull (keel), which indicates how deep a boat sits in the water. The keel itself is a structural component that extends down into the water, helping to provide stability and prevent capsizing. The hull is the main body of the canoe or boat, encompassing both the structure below the waterline and the portion above it.

Understanding freeboard is essential for evaluating a canoe's seaworthiness and how it will perform in different water conditions.