Ship's Draft

In maritime context, a ship's draft, also known as draught, refers to the vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the ship's hull (keel). This measurement is critical in determining the depth of water a ship or boat can safely navigate, also known as its minimum operating depth. The draft can change depending on the load of the ship; a heavily loaded ship will sit deeper in the water, thus having a larger draft. Draft is measured in meters in most parts of the world, and in feet in the United States. Understanding a ship's draft is crucial for many maritime operations, including navigation, loading, and unloading cargo, and ensuring the ship's safety. For instance, a ship with a large draft cannot enter shallow waters or ports, limiting its operational areas. Similarly, overloading a ship can increase its draft and risk grounding or capsizing. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate draft is a key aspect of ship stability and safety.
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