What does the term "draft" refer to in boating?

The term "draft" in boating specifically refers to the vertical distance between the waterline and the bottom of the hull. This measurement is crucial for understanding how much of the boat is submerged in water. A boat's draft affects its ability to navigate shallow waters, as a deeper draft means the boat requires more water depth to float safely.

Knowing the draft helps boaters avoid obstacles such as sandbars or underwater structures that could potentially damage the boat. Therefore, understanding this measurement is essential for safe and effective boating. The other terms, while related to aspects of a boat's size and capabilities, do not define "draft." For example, the total weight of the boat pertains to its carrying capacity and structural integrity, height above the water is more related to visibility and stability, and the length from bow to stern describes the overall size but not how much of the boat is in the water.