The information obtained from an inclining experiment is critically important in establishing whether all ships but especially passenger ships (cruise ships, ferries and large luxury yachts) can operate safely i.e. are not overloaded and have sufficient stability to meet all statutory requirements. The weight of a ship and the LCG is determined from draught readings by mathematical formulae and by conducting a detailed survey to determine all deadweight items. The lightship weight and LCG can then be determined by deducting the deadweight from the total weight of the ship at the time of the survey. The stability of the ship is far more complex to determine and requires an inclining experiment to be performed. The paper discusses the experiences of Burness Corlett - Three Quays when performing these surveys and experiments and highlights areas of interest, with cautionary tales. The paper identifies causes for the changes to lightship details and comments on the accuracy of the results obtained.
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