lowdraught

Lowdraught is a term used in naval architecture and boating to describe a vessel with a shallow draft. The draft of a ship is the vertical distance between the waterline and the lowest point of the hull, typically the keel. A lowdraught vessel is designed to operate in relatively shallow waters, such as rivers, canals, estuaries, and harbors where deeper-drafted vessels would risk grounding.

The design of a lowdraught vessel often involves a flatter hull shape and a reduced keel depth. This can be achieved through various hull forms, including barges, punts, and some types of catamarans. Special considerations are made during the design process to ensure stability and seaworthiness despite the shallow profile. While lowdraught vessels are ideal for navigating confined or shallow areas, they may exhibit different handling characteristics compared to deep-drafted vessels, particularly in rough seas. They can be more susceptible to pitching and rolling.

The advantages of lowdraught designs are primarily their access to areas inaccessible to deeper vessels and their ability to carry significant cargo relative to their size in certain configurations. This makes them useful for inland waterway transport, coastal trading, and recreational boating in specific environments. Conversely, their shallow draft can also be a disadvantage in areas with strong currents or waves, as they may be more exposed to the elements.