What is plimsoll lines?

Plimsoll lines are lines on boats and ships. If the line goes beneath the water the ship has too much cargo to be safe.

The line was instigated by the English politician, Samuel Plimsoll, to try and stop the loss of lives and ships. Owners and shippers encouraged the captain to overload to get maximum freight for cost.

The line is now assigned by insurance companies and enforced by laws, across the world.

It looks like a circle with a line through it, on both sides midway along the side.

The line through the middle must not be submerged, when floating in salt water, in summer seasonal waters.

Another set of lines ahead of it, show modifications to the plimsoll line, allowing for seasonal differences, fresh water and timber cargoes.

There are usually two letters placed fore and aft on the line. This denotes which insurance company has assigned the line.

L R = Lloyd's Registry

B V = Bureau Veritas