What does the term "heaving to" mean in a distress situation?

In a distress situation, "heaving to" refers to the action of slowing down or stopping the vessel in order to maintain a position, typically to await assistance or to stabilize the craft during rough conditions. This maneuver is critical when a vessel needs to conserve energy, particularly in adverse weather or when facing a critical situation at sea.

By heaving to, the vessel can ride the waves more effectively, reducing the risk of capsizing and allowing occupants to manage the situation more safely, whether that involves signaling for help, conducting repairs, or ensuring the safety of those on board. This technique is particularly important because it allows a vessel to remain in a relatively stable position without the peril of drifting into more dangerous waters or obstacles.

In contrast, maneuvering quickly away from danger focuses on avoiding threats rather than remaining stationary, while signaling for help entails actively alerting nearby vessels or authorities. Dropping anchor, although it might seem similar, implies a definitive stop in a particular location rather than the tactical positioning that "heaving to" implies, which allows for more dynamic responses depending on evolving conditions.