What does the term "navigational draft" refer to?

The term "navigational draft" refers specifically to the depth of water required to float a vessel. This measurement is critical for safe navigation, as it determines the minimum water depth needed for the vessel to operate without grounding.

Understanding navigational draft is essential for all mariners, as it allows them to assess whether specific waterways, channels, or ports have sufficient depth to accommodate their vessel's draft. Factors such as load, vessel design, and water conditions can affect a vessel's draft, making it vital for captains to be aware of their vessel's requirements in various navigational situations.

In contrast, the length of the vessel below the waterline, its total height, or its width at the water surface are important dimensions but do not pertain to the draft. These other measurements serve different purposes in maritime navigation and vessel design and do not directly relate to the water depth necessary for safe passage.