Nautical Term: Limber hole

Definition of Limber hole

A limber hole is a small opening or slot intentionally cut into the structural framework of a ship or boat. This feature serves the essential function of permitting the efficient drainage of liquids, such as water or rain, from the internal spaces of the vessel. By allowing the accumulated liquids to drain out through the limber hole, the overall weight of the ship or boat is reduced, which in turn contributes to improved stability, maneuverability, and overall seaworthiness of the vessel.

For instance, imagine a situation where a large wave crashes against the side of a ship, causing a significant amount of water to enter the vessel through various openings, such as hatches, portholes, or scuppers.

In order to prevent the accumulation of water inside the ship, the crew members would need to take swift action to remove the excess water from the vessel as efficiently as possible.

One of the primary methods that the crew could employ to facilitate the rapid drainage of water from the ship would be to utilize the limber holes strategically located throughout the vessel’s framework.

By opening the limber holes and allowing the excess water to flow out through these openings, the crew

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