What does 'freeboard' indicate on a boat?

'Freeboard' is a critical measurement in boating safety, referring to the distance from the water's surface to the lowest point of the boat's gunwale (the upper edge of the boat's side). This measurement indicates how much of the vessel is above the water and is essential for assessing the boat's ability to handle waves and prevent water from entering the hull.

This distance is crucial during different conditions at sea, as a greater freeboard can help to reduce the risk of swamping—a situation where waves could wash over the side of the boat, potentially leading to capsizing. Knowing the freeboard helps boaters understand the vessel's seaworthiness and aids in making informed decisions about loading, venturing into rough waters, and evaluating safety measures.

While the other options deal with different dimensions of a boat, they do not capture the specific meaning of 'freeboard' as well as the distance from the water to the lowest point where water could enter.