Adrift
Adrift describes a vessel or object floating freely without control — not under propulsion, not anchored, and not made fast — and therefore at the mercy of the wind, current and tide. A ship goes adrift if it loses power (a “not under command” situation), breaks its moorings, or drags its anchor.
Being adrift is a hazardous situation: a drifting ship cannot steer to avoid other traffic or dangers and may run aground or collide, which is why a vessel not under command must display the correct signals under the COLREGs and, if in danger, seek assistance (tugs, salvage). Loose gear or a boat that comes “adrift” on deck is likewise uncontrolled and dangerous. Preventing and responding to a ship going adrift — through reliable propulsion, secure mooring and prompt action — is a real safety concern. Adrift is a fundamental term describing a loss of control at sea, tied closely to navigation safety, salvage and seamanship. It denotes a vessel no longer master of its own movement.
A ship adrift has lost control of its own movement — it can't steer clear of traffic or hazards and may ground or collide, which is why "not under command" carries its own COLREG signals and often calls for tugs or salvage. Understanding adrift, and preventing it through reliable power and secure mooring, is core to navigation safety.
What does it mean for a ship to be adrift?
It is floating freely with no propulsion, anchor or mooring holding it, so wind and current carry it — a loss of control.
Why is being adrift dangerous?
The vessel cannot steer to avoid other ships or hazards and may run aground or collide, so it must signal "not under command" and seek help.