List

A persistent inclination of a vessel to port or starboard when it would normally be upright.

A list is commonly caused by uneven loading, movement of cargo or ballast, flooding, free-surface liquid or a structural or stability problem. It differs from heel caused temporarily by wind pressure, turning forces or wave action, although the terms are sometimes used loosely.

An unexplained or increasing list should be investigated promptly. Moving weight without understanding the cause can worsen stability, particularly if water is accumulating or a suspended or unsecured load has shifted.