1

In English, we have many words to describe the different types of vessels that travel on water:

  • boat
  • ship
  • yacht
  • dinghy
  • canoe
  • kayak
  • raft
  • watercraft
  • vessel
  • sailboat
  • barge
  • catamaran
  • lifeboat/liferaft
  • and other less common terms

Do these have direct translations into Spanish?

Also, what are the most common generic terms for a boat or ship, and what are the differences between them?

1 Answer 1

7

boat: barco, barca (smaller)

ship: barco, buque

yacht: yate

dinghy: bote neumático

canoe: canoa

kayak: Kayac

raft: balsa (Floating platform, originally formed by timbers together)

watercraft: embarcaciones (generic)

vessel: navío

sailboat: velero

barge: barcaza

catamaran: catamarán

lifeboat/liferaft: bote salvavidas

The generic word for describe a board/ship in Spain is barco. But if you want do be more specific you could use other words like ship.

5
  • 1
    I didn't know the word dinghy, but it seems it's a bote, not necessarily neumático.
    – MikMik
    Jan 19, 2012 at 7:15
  • 1
    How does lancha fit in here?
    – jrdioko
    Feb 2, 2012 at 18:45
  • 1
    @jrdioko "lancha" is a motorboat
    – Javi
    Feb 3, 2012 at 8:15
  • "dinghy: bote neumático" - sorry, that's just wrong. "bote neumático" is inflatable boat.
    – vartec
    Feb 3, 2012 at 16:50
  • "boat" can also be called "bote". Jul 5, 2022 at 19:33

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.