What can cause a vessel to list?

A vessel can list due to various factors that affect its stability, and the correct answer encompasses both an off-center position of the center of gravity (G) and a negative metacentric height (GM).

When the center of gravity is located off the centerline, any lateral force can cause the vessel to tilt toward the side where the weight is displaced. The greater the distance of G from the centerline, the more pronounced the listing can become, as this displaced weight exerts a leverage effect on the vessel.

Additionally, a negative GM indicates that the center of gravity is higher than the metacenter. In this scenario, the vessel lacks sufficient righting moment, which is necessary to return it to an upright position after being heeled. This behavior can lead to instability and result in a list.

The combination of these two factors—G being off center and a negative GM—creates conditions that can lead to a dangerous and persistent list. This is why acknowledging both causes is essential for understanding vessel stability and ensuring safe operations.