An unballasted vessel has no water, heavy cargo, or solid weight added low in the hull to lower its center of gravity. Operating in this condition leaves a ship riding high in the water, which exposes the propeller and rudder, reduces steering control, and makes the vessel highly vulnerable to rolling or capsizing in heavy winds.
We can't leave port unballasted with this gale warning; start pumping seawater into the double bottoms.
Light ships almost never sail completely unballasted; they pump in seawater to maintain a safe draft and trim.
Related terms
Free surface effect
The dangerous shift in a vessel's center of gravity caused by liquids sloshing in partially filled tanks.
Water line
The horizontal intersection line where a floating vessel's hull meets the surface of the water.
Ship
A large seagoing vessel capable of sustained independent operation.