Legal Definitions - bare steerageway

Definition: Bare steerageway is the minimum speed required for a ship to maintain its course. It is the slowest speed at which a ship can still be steered and controlled.

Example: If a ship is moving too slowly, it may lose its ability to steer and become unmanageable. In this case, the ship is said to be "dead in the water." To avoid this, the ship must maintain bare steerageway, which is typically around 2-3 knots.

Explanation: Bare steerageway is important for the safety of the ship and its crew. Without enough speed, the ship may become difficult to control and could be at risk of colliding with other vessels or running aground. By maintaining bare steerageway, the ship can still be steered and maneuvered, even in challenging conditions.