Glossary Term
Air Draft
Air draft is the vertical distance from the waterline to the highest fixed point of a yacht. That highest point may be a masthead, radar arch, antenna mount, dome, funnel, or another permanent structure, depending on the vessel’s design. Some yachts can reduce air draft temporarily by lowering masts or folding certain fittings, but the stated figure usually refers to the normal operating condition.
This measurement is checked before passing under bridges, entering covered sheds, using travel routes with overhead limits, or arranging crane and transport operations. The usable figure can change with loading, trim, tide level, and the exact equipment fitted at the top of the vessel, so a small error in the stated height can create a real access problem.
Air draft is different from draft, which measures depth below the waterline. A yacht may have relatively shallow underwater depth and still face serious clearance limits above the water because of tall superstructure elements or mast arrangements.