The word "keel" in the English language comes from Old English cēol, Old Norse kjóll, = "ship" or "keel".
The keel is the lowest longitudinal structural element of a ship. The keel is often the first part of a ship's hull to be built. The laying of the keel, or the placement of the keel in the cradle in which the ship will be built, can mark the beginning of its construction.
It keeps the latter in balance and serves as an anti-drift plan. Invisible, located be-low the waterline, the keel therefore plays an essential role in ensur-ing stability and thus contributing to improving the performance of the vessel it equips.