List
A List is a persistent (static) transverse tilt of a ship to one side — leaning to port or starboard — as distinct from the dynamic, oscillating roll caused by waves. A list is caused by an imbalance: uneven distribution of cargo, ballast or fuel; shifted cargo; or flooding of a compartment on one side.
A list is a warning sign that must be understood and corrected, because it reflects the ship's stability and weight distribution. A modest list can be corrected by adjusting ballast; a sudden or increasing list may indicate a serious problem — flooding, cargo shift or loss of stability — that can precede a capsize. Distinguishing a list (steady lean, an imbalance issue) from heel (a temporary lean from an external force like wind or a turn) and roll (wave-induced oscillation) is important in understanding ship stability and safety. A list is a key indicator of a vessel's condition and a matter of close attention in ship operation. It signals how the ship is balanced.
A list is the ship telling you something is out of balance — uneven loading, a cargo shift, or flooding — and a sudden or growing one can be the prelude to capsize. Reading a list correctly, and distinguishing it from wave-roll or a wind heel, is central to monitoring stability and catching danger early.
What is the difference between list, heel and roll?
List is a steady lean from an imbalance; heel is a temporary lean from an external force (wind, a turn); roll is wave-induced oscillation.
What causes a ship to list?
Uneven cargo, ballast or fuel distribution, shifted cargo, or flooding of a compartment on one side.