The DEEP DRILLER is under tow at a 20 foot draft. The rig motions are close to exceeding the limits for critical pitch and roll. The rig is also experiencing occasional pounding on the horizontal braces. In this situation you should __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — ballast down to a 45 foot draft and check vessel motions

Increasing draft lowers the center of gravity, increases virtual mass, and submerges horizontal structural members below the active wave zone. Ballasting down to 45 feet dampens severe pitch, roll, and structural pounding experienced during shallow-draft ocean transits.