@onlinethirdmate: 🟥SUBJECT: DRAFT The draft of a ship is the vertical distance from the keel to the present waterline. It changes with the vessel’s displacement and with water density. Denser water, such as colder or saltier seawater, provides greater buoyancy so the ship floats higher and the draft decreases. Less dense water, such as warm, brackish or fresh water, provides less buoyancy so the ship sinks deeper and the draft increases. Accurate draft readings are essential for precise cargo operations, safe navigation in shallow waters, and for preventing grounding.