Heel (Vessel Motion)
A vessel’s inclination to port or starboard from the upright.
Heel is commonly produced by wind force on sails or superstructure, turning forces, an off-centre suspended load or uneven weight distribution. It is generally distinguished from list, which describes a more persistent inclination caused by loading, flooding or damage, although everyday usage can overlap.
The consequences depend on hull form, stability, freeboard and downflooding openings. Excessive heel can reduce control, immerse deck edges or openings and shift unsecured loads, so cause and trend matter more than angle alone.
