According to regulations, where are draft marks required?

Draft marks are required at the stem and stern of a vessel to provide accurate measurements of the vessel's draft at these critical points. These marks are essential for various maritime operations, including safe navigation, mooring, and loading. They allow crews and port authorities to determine how deep the vessel sits in the water, which is crucial for assessing the vessel's stability and ensuring it is not overloaded.

Having draft marks at both the stem and stern enables a more complete understanding of how the vessel is balanced in the water, especially when considering the effects of loading and unloading cargo. It also aids in compliance with international regulations and safe maneuvering within port limits.

While draft marks throughout the hull or at midship can provide additional information, the standard requirement is specifically for the stem and stern to ensure that the most critical points of the vessel's stability are monitored effectively.