What is a ship's "freeboard"?

A ship's "freeboard" refers to the distance from the waterline to the main deck of the ship. This measurement is crucial for ensuring the vessel's safety and stability while at sea. It determines how much of the ship is above the water, which affects its capacity to remain buoyant and seaworthy under various conditions, especially in rough seas.

The concept of freeboard is significant because it influences the ship's ability to resist flooding; a higher freeboard typically means a greater safety margin against waves washing over the deck. It also plays a role in stability by contributing to the ship's metacentric height.

This definition aligns with standards set by maritime regulatory agencies, which establish minimum freeboard requirements based on the vessel type and intended use. Understanding freeboard helps in assessing whether a ship is adequately designed to handle the operational environment where it will be sailing.