taffrail

noun3

1. •
   The curved wooden top of the stern of a sailing man-of-war or East Indiaman, usually carved or decorated.
2. •
   The rail around the stern of a ship.

   • One evening, leaning over the taffrail, I observed a very singular, isolated cloud, to the N.W. — 1833
3. •
   The deck area at the stern of a vessel.