If a vessel is listing, what action should you take to correct the list?

When addressing a list in a vessel, shifting weight from a higher position to a lower position is an effective method for correcting the tilt. This action lowers the center of gravity, which enhances stability and helps to right the vessel. By redistributing weight in such a manner, the metacenter—the point about which the vessel tilts—can be raised relative to the center of gravity, reducing the angle of the list.

Using this technique can also prevent excessive heel, which can lead to dangerous situations such as capsizing. Therefore, the correct action—shifting weight downward—is not only a straightforward approach but also aligns with fundamental principles of marine stability.

Other options may not address the underlying issue effectively or could exacerbate the problem. For instance, adding weight to the high side would increase the list instead of correcting it. Reducing speed can change how forces act on the ship but won't affect the list directly. Finally, changing ballast configuration can help in some circumstances, but it may require more time and effort than simply shifting existing weights. It may also not produce immediate corrective action without specific knowledge of the vessel's current state.