What does the term "draft" refer to concerning a boat?

The term "draft" specifically refers to the distance from the waterline to the lowest point of the hull of the boat, which is often the keel. This measurement indicates how deep the boat sits in the water and is crucial for determining where a boat can safely navigate. A boat with a deeper draft requires more water to avoid running aground, while a shallower draft allows it to access shallower waters.

Understanding the draft is essential for safe boating, especially in areas with variable water depths, as it helps boaters assess whether their vessel can navigate certain waterways without risk of grounding. This measurement can also influence the design and stability of a boat, as it relates to how the boat interacts with the water.

The other choices relate to different boat characteristics: total weight would influence stability and would be measured by the boat's load capacity, the length is an important dimension but does not pertain to how deep the boat sits in the water, and maximum speed pertains to performance rather than physical water interaction. Thus, recognizing the specific definition of "draft" is vital for safe boating practices.