What condition must be met during a stability test on an inspected vessel?

Correct Answer: Option B — water under vessel must be deep enough to prevent grounding

Stability tests, or inclining experiments, require the vessel to be floating freely. If the vessel touches the bottom, the resulting external force invalidates the data. Sufficient water depth is a fundamental requirement under 46 CFR 170.085 to ensure accurate measurement of the vessel's center of gravity.