Orlop deck

The orlop is the lowest deck in a ship (except for very old ships), immediately above the hold. It is the deck or part of a deck where the cables are stowed, usually below the water line.^[1]

18th century warship cross section, the orlop deck highlighted in red

The orlop of the Swedish 17th century warship Vasa looking toward the bow.

Etymology

The word derives from the Dutch overloop from the verb overlopen ("to run over, extend").^[2]

Utilisation

The orlop would be used to store various supplies and equipment, such as cordage and blocks utilised around the ship, and it would also house the warrant officers' workrooms. The brig, used to hold prisoners, would be located near the aft.^[3]

During maritime combat, injured sailors would be moved to the orlop deck to be treated in the surgeons' cockpit, located towards the stern.^[4] As it was beneath the water line, it was safer from enemy cannon fire.