To reduce excessive trim by the stern on a loaded tank vessel, what should be done?

To reduce excessive trim by the stern on a loaded tank vessel, shifting bunkers forward is an effective method. When a vessel is trimmed by the stern, it means that the stern is lower than the bow, which can impact the vessel’s stability and handling characteristics. Shifting bunkers forward helps to redistribute weight within the vessel, effectively reducing the stern's heavy trim.

This approach is often preferred because it does not involve discharging cargo or loading additional cargo, which can be time-consuming and may disrupt the vessel’s cargo operations. By simply moving the existing fuel from the aft to a more central or forward position, the vessel's center of gravity is adjusted, improving its trim and overall balance without introducing additional complexities.

In contrast, discharging cargo from the after tanks might solve the issue temporarily, but it can lead to substantial cargo loss and operational interruption. Loading more cargo forward directly alters the vessel’s cargo balance and necessitates careful consideration of stability and safety. Adding ballast forward would also counteract the trim issues; however, it typically involves extra weight, which may not be desirable if the vessel is already at or near its maximum capacity.

Therefore, shifting bunkers forward provides a more immediate and controllable means of addressing excessive trim by the stern,