What is Draft?
Draft refers to the vertical distance between the waterline of a boat and the bottom of its hull. In simpler terms, it's how deep a boat sits in the water.
Understanding Draft
- Light Draft: Boats with a shallow draft can navigate in shallow water. They are commonly used in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas with varying depths.
- Deep Draft: Boats with a deep draft need deeper water to operate safely. These are usually larger vessels like cargo ships and cruise ships.
Factors Influencing Draft
- Boat Design: The shape and size of a boat's hull determine its draft.
- Load: The weight of the boat, including passengers, cargo, and fuel, directly affects its draft.
- Water Density: Saltwater is denser than freshwater, causing a boat to sit lower in the water.
Why Draft Matters
- Navigation: Knowing your boat's draft is crucial for avoiding grounding in shallow water.
- Safety: Navigating in waters shallower than your boat's draft can lead to damage or capsizing.
- Marina Access: Some marinas have depth restrictions that you need to consider.
Checking Draft
- Draft Markings: Many boats have draft markings on their hulls, indicating the depth at various load levels.
- Measuring Tape: You can measure the distance from the waterline to the bottom of the hull using a tape measure.
Choosing the Right Draft
The appropriate draft depends on your intended use of the boat:
- Recreational Boating: Consider the depth of the waters you plan to navigate.
- Commercial Shipping: Deep draft vessels are needed for carrying heavy loads.
- Fishing: A shallow draft boat is beneficial for fishing in rivers and estuaries.
Knowing your boat's draft is vital for safe and enjoyable boating.