Plimsoll Line

The Plimsoll Line is a marking on the side of a ship that indicates the maximum safe loading level for different water conditions. Named after Samuel Plimsoll, who advocated for maritime safety in the 19th century, this line helps ensure that a ship is not overloaded, which could make it unstable or prone to sinking. The line typically has different symbols to represent various water types, such as freshwater and seawater, accounting for their different buoyancy. By adhering to this guideline, shipowners can promote safety for their vessel, crew, and cargo.