Your tank vessel is loaded down to her marks, and you find that she has too much trim by the stern. Which of the following action would reduce the excessive trim?

Correct Answer: Option C — shift bunkers forward

Excessive stern trim is corrected by moving weight forward. Shifting bunkers forward is the preferred operational solution because it redistributes existing mass to improve the vessel's longitudinal balance. This action reduces the draft at the stern and increases the draft at the bow, achieving a more even keel.