Anatomy
Freeboard
Definition
The distance from the waterline to the deck edge. Higher freeboard means better reserve buoyancy.
Freeboard in practice
Freeboard is measured at the lowest point of the deck edge. High freeboard keeps the deck drier and adds reserve buoyancy, but it catches more wind when manoeuvring in a marina.
Low freeboard makes it easier to climb out of the water or recover a person overboard, but the boat will take more water on deck in a seaway.
Common questions
- Why does freeboard matter in a man-overboard recovery?
- The higher the deck, the harder it is to lift a person aboard. On high-freeboard yachts, a halyard and tackle or a recovery sling is usually needed.
- Does freeboard change when the boat is loaded?
- Yes. Heavy stores, water and fuel make the boat float lower and reduce freeboard.
More Anatomy terms
Where Freeboard comes up in the course
Free theory lessons that use this term in context.