How Cargo Changes Boat Stability

Boat stability depends on hull shape and internal mass distribution. A stable vessel can self-right after it is rolled to one side by an outside force. Careful hull design helps seagoing vessels stay stable with a low draft, which is the submerged depth of the hull. That can improve maneuverability and reduce drag.

When evaluating floating vessels and structures, the most important performance metric, apart from staying afloat, is arguably that it can stay upright. In fact, for many vessels, the ability to stay float depends heavily on the ability to maintain a particular orientation. A capsized vessel is likely to flood and subsequently lose positive buoy...