What is meant by "ballasting" in marine terminology?

Ballasting refers to the process of adding water to the ballast tanks of a vessel. This practice is crucial for maintaining vessel stability, controlling the weight distribution, and providing the necessary trim for safe navigation. By taking on water into the ballast tanks, a ship can lower its center of gravity, which enhances stability and handling, particularly when it is navigating in challenging conditions or carrying a light load.

This process plays a vital role in ensuring that the vessel meets its operational requirements, such as achieving the desired draft, which can have implications for safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. Ballasting is particularly significant for tankers, as they often have large cargo loads that can shift, and having the right amount of ballast helps to prevent capsizing and improves overall vessel performance during transit.