Following cargo loading operations, your vessel is experiencing an excessive at-sea sagging bending stress as shown in the illustration. What should you do to reduce the bending moment? Illustration SF-0047

Correct Answer: Option B — Add ballast to the forepeak and after peak tanks.

Sagging occurs when the vessel's midsection is overloaded relative to the ends, causing the hull to droop. Adding ballast to the forepeak and after peak tanks increases the downward force at the extremities, effectively balancing the load and reducing the excessive sagging bending moment on the hull girder.