Which term describes the area near or toward the stern of a vessel?

The term that describes the area near or toward the stern of a vessel is "Aft-End." In nautical terminology, "aft" refers specifically to the back portion of a ship, moving toward the stern. When navigating or discussing the layout of a vessel, understanding these directional terms is crucial for effective communication and safety. This knowledge helps crew members orient themselves and coordinate tasks on the vessel, particularly in situations that require precise positioning or movement. The other terms relate to different parts of the vessel: "Bow" refers to the front, while "Starboard" and "Port" denote the right and left sides of the vessel, respectively, when facing forward.