Listing

The condition of a vessel leaning to one side due to an imbalance in weight or external forces. 

A vessel lists when it tilts to port or starboard due to an uneven distribution of weight, such as cargo, fuel, or ballast, or as a result of flooding. Unlike rolling, which is a temporary motion caused by waves, listing is a more sustained condition that indicates a stability issue. A minor list may be corrected by redistributing weight or adjusting ballast, but a severe list can compromise the vessel’s stability and seaworthiness. If the list is caused by flooding, it may indicate hull damage or water ingress, which can be dangerous if not addressed promptly. A ship with a significant list may experience difficulties in manoeuvring and could capsize if the angle of inclination becomes too great. Understanding and managing list is crucial for maintaining a vessel’s stability and ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo.