what is a skeg on a boat

A skeg on a boat is a structural element that extends downward from the bottom of the hull, usually near the stern (rear) of the vessel. Its main functions are to provide stability, improve steering control, and help the boat maintain a straight course by reducing sideways drift caused by wind or currents. The skeg also protects important components like the propeller and rudder from underwater hazards such as rocks or debris. Skegs are often found as a sternward extension of the keel on boats and ships with a rudder mounted on the centerline. They act somewhat like a keel fin or a stabilizing blade. Unlike a rudder, a skeg itself doesn't pivot for steering but helps keep the vessel tracking straight. Skegs can be fixed or, in some types of boats like kayaks, retractable. In addition to stability and directional control, the skeg shields the propulsion and steering mechanisms from damage, making it a vital component for boat performance and safety on the water. In summary, a skeg is a protective and stabilizing fin-like structure attached to the bottom rear of a boat or ship, contributing directly to steady navigation and protection of underwater parts. This explanation covers general boats, kayaks, and motorboats where the skeg serves a similar purpose of stability and protection. If you want a brief definition:
A skeg is a fin or blade extending downward from the hull near the stern that improves stability, helps the boat track straight, and protects the propeller and rudder.