Maritime Glossary
Draft
Also known as: draught
The vertical distance from the waterline to the lowest point of the hull (keel).
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Full Definition
Draft (draught) is the depth of water a vessel requires to float. It is measured at the bow (forward draft), midships, and stern (aft draft). The difference between forward and aft draft is trim. Draft determines port accessibility, affects stability calculations, and governs load-line compliance. Draft marks are painted on the hull at regular intervals in decimetres (metric) or feet (imperial).
Domain Tags
vessel measurementsnavigationseamanship