Which draft mark type is used to indicate the minimum freeboard and maximum depth?

• A. Calculative
• B. Limiting
• C. Navigational
• D. Plimsoll

Answer: (D)

The draft mark that communicates how heavily a vessel may be loaded is the Plimsoll line. It’s the familiar load‑line mark painted amidships on the hull, often with the circle and additional lines or letters showing different zones for summer, winter, tropical, and freshwater conditions. This mark sets the maximum permissible draught, which directly corresponds to the minimum freeboard required for safe operation in varying seas. Because the Plimsoll line is the standard, globally recognized mark defined by the Load Line Convention for indicating these loading limits, it is the best answer.