When the bow of a vessel rises, what action is typically taken?

When the bow of a vessel rises, it typically indicates that the vessel is experiencing a reduction in the underwater hull's effective depth due to the flow of water beneath it, especially in shallow conditions. This phenomenon is known as "squat." It occurs when the vessel moves through the water, causing the water level to decrease temporarily beneath the hull.

In this scenario, to counteract the effects of squat, vessel operators may choose to adjust their speed or maneuverability to maintain sufficient clearance from the seabed and avoid grounding. Understanding squat is essential for safe navigation, particularly in narrow channels or shallow waters where this effect can be pronounced. Therefore, recognizing squat as the appropriate response when the bow rises effectively underscores the importance of understanding vessel dynamics in different water conditions.