Keellaying

Keellaying is a significant milestone in the construction of a ship or boat. It marks the formal commencement of the hull's assembly. The keel, which is the backbone of the vessel, is the first structural component to be laid down. Historically, it was a single, long timber or metal bar that ran the length of the ship's bottom. Today, the term still applies even if the modern construction methods involve assembled sections rather than a single monolithic piece.

The ceremony of keellaying is often a symbolic event, sometimes involving the placing of a commemorative coin or other object beneath the keel. This tradition is believed to bring good luck to the ship and its future crew. While the keel itself is a foundational element for structural integrity, its ceremonial placement also signifies the beginning of a lengthy and complex construction process. The successful completion of the keel laying ceremony leads to the subsequent stages of building the ship's frame, hull plating, and other essential components. It is a widely recognized and celebrated event within the shipbuilding industry.