The terminology surrounding submarines often sparks curiosity, especially since they are frequently referred to as "boats" rather than "ships." This distinction raises the question: why are subs called boats? To understand the rationale behind this nomenclature, it is important to delve into historical, linguistic, and functional aspects of submarines. This article explores the origins of the terminology, the differences between ships and boats, and the cultural and operational reasons why submarines are called boats.
Historical Origins of the Term "Boat"
Early Nautical Terminology
The use of the term "boat" predates the modern concept of ships and submarines. Historically, a boat referred to any small watercraft that could be easily carried or transported, while a ship was a larger vessel capable of long-distance travel and carrying significant cargo or passengers.
In ancient times, smaller vessels such as canoes, dinghies, and skiffs were termed "boats," whereas larger vessels like galleons and merchant ships were called "ships." This distinction persisted through maritime history, influencing the way vessels were classified.
Adoption of the Term in Submarine History
The first submarines, developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were relatively small and operated close to shore or in confined waters. Early submarine pioneers, such as John Philip Holland and Simon Lake, regarded their vessels as small craft, emphasizing their size and operational scope.
Furthermore, during World War I and World War II, submarines were often considered auxiliary vessels supporting naval operations rather than independent "ships" in the traditional sense. The terminology of "boat" was retained to reflect their smaller size and specialized role.
Differences Between "Ship" and "Boat"
Definitions and Criteria
The distinction between a "ship" and a "boat" is not strictly technical but rooted in conventional usage and size:
- Ship:
- Larger vessel
- Capable of ocean-crossing voyages
- Equipped with complex navigation and communication systems
- Usually manned by a sizable crew
- Examples: Battleships, aircraft carriers, cargo ships
- Boat:
- Smaller vessel
- Operates in inland or coastal waters
- Less complex in design and capabilities
- Usually crewed by a small team or individual
- Examples: Dinghies, fishing boats, yachts
Operational and Cultural Perspectives
The naval tradition and operational practices influence how vessels are named. Larger ships, with their scale and significance, are often regarded as capital ships or "ships" in formal contexts. Smaller vessels, especially those serving specialized functions, retain the "boat" designation.
This cultural convention has persisted into modern times, affecting the terminology used by navies worldwide, including the U.S. Navy, Royal Navy, and others.
Why Submarines Are Referred to as Boats
Historical Classification and Tradition
Submarines originated as small, experimental vessels designed for clandestine operations and coastal defense. Their size and role aligned more closely with traditional "boats" than with larger surface ships.
Historically, many navies, especially the United States Navy, have adhered to the tradition of referring to submarines as "boats" for several reasons:
- Size and Role: Early submarines were relatively small and operated in confined waters, similar to traditional boats.
- Operational Philosophy: Submarines were viewed as specialized, covert vessels rather than large fleet units.
- Historical Usage: The term "boat" was used in official and colloquial language to describe submarines from their inception.
Naval Language and Formal Usage
In the naval community, the term "boat" persists as a sign of tradition and respect for the vessel's specialized role. For example:
- Crew members and officers often refer to their submarine as "the boat."
- Official documents and communication sometimes specify "submarine boat" or simply "boat" in line with historic usage.
- The phrase "submarine boat" has been used in official contexts, emphasizing the vessel's nature.
This linguistic choice underscores the unique status of submarines within naval operations, differentiating them from surface ships.
Technical and Practical Reasons for the Terminology
Design and Construction Aspects
Submarines are built with a focus on stealth, maneuverability, and operational flexibility, which are characteristics more aligned with boats than ships. Their compact size, specialized design, and the nature of their missions support the "boat" designation.
Operational Environment
Submarines primarily operate underwater, in confined environments that resemble small craft more than large ships. Their submerged nature, combined with their size, makes the "boat" terminology more fitting.
Size and Crew Considerations
Most submarines, especially in early designs, had smaller crews and less complex infrastructure compared to large surface ships. This practical aspect reinforces the traditional classification.
Cultural and Modern Usage
Official and Naval Usage
Many navies maintain the tradition of calling submarines "boats." For example:
- The United States Navy officially refers to submarines as "boats" in many contexts.
- The phrase "boat" is used in submarine crew slang and informal speech.
Public Perception and Media
In popular culture, the term "boat" for submarines also persists, often used to evoke a sense of intimacy and closeness to the vessel's operator. It emphasizes the vessel's small size and specialized nature compared to larger military ships.
Summary
The reason why submarines are called "boats" is rooted in a combination of historical tradition, operational characteristics, linguistic conventions, and cultural practices. Early submarines' small size and specialized roles made the "boat" designation appropriate and enduring. Naval traditions and the distinction between ships and boats further reinforced this terminology. Despite advances in submarine size and technology, the term "boat" continues to be used, symbolizing the vessel's unique identity within naval history and culture.
Conclusion
Understanding why subs are called boats reveals more than just linguistic trivia; it reflects a rich tradition that honors the vessel's origins, design, and role within naval operations. Whether in official contexts or colloquial speech, calling submarines "boats" maintains a link to their historical roots, emphasizing their specialized, smaller, and often covert nature. This terminology continues to symbolize the unique craftsmanship and operational philosophy behind these remarkable underwater vessels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are submarines commonly referred to as boats rather than ships?
Submarines are called boats because they are generally smaller and share more characteristics with traditional boats, such as being built for specific tasks and having a more compact structure, whereas ships are larger and designed for different purposes.
Is the term 'boat' for submarines used universally or mainly in certain regions?
The term 'boat' for submarines is primarily used in the United States and some other English-speaking countries, while in many other regions, submarines are often called ships, reflecting different naval traditions and terminology.
Does the designation of submarines as boats have historical significance?
Yes, historically, early submarines were small and more similar to boats in design and function, which influenced the continued tradition of calling them boats even as they became larger and more complex.
Are there any technical differences in terminology between 'boats' and 'ships' in naval context?
Yes, technically, 'ships' are larger vessels capable of operating independently across open seas, whereas 'boats' are smaller and often operate in confined or specific environments; submarines are called boats because they are more similar to the latter in design and purpose.
How does calling submarines 'boats' affect naval culture and tradition?
Referring to submarines as 'boats' maintains a sense of tradition and camaraderie among submariners, emphasizing their unique role and history within naval service.
Are there any differences in the way submarines are referred to in different navies around the world?
Yes, while the U.S. Navy and some Western navies often call submarines 'boats,' other navies, like the Royal Navy, typically refer to them as 'submarines' or 'boats,' depending on context, reflecting varying naval customs.
