What does 'heading' indicate about a ship?

'Heading' refers to the direction in which the bow of the ship is pointing at any given moment. It is an essential concept in navigation and seamanship, as it influences the ship's course over ground, effectiveness of maneuvers, and overall navigation strategy. The heading is typically measured in degrees from true north (or magnetic north), allowing mariners to understand exactly where the vessel is oriented, which is crucial for safe navigation and avoiding obstacles.

Understanding the ship's heading is important for several reasons, including course plotting, adhering to navigational rules, and ensuring strategic alignments when approaching targets or navigating through confined waters. When a vessel changes its heading, it alters its movement path, which can help in adjusting to currents, wind conditions, or avoiding hazards. Thus, knowing the heading is fundamental for effective seamanship and navigation practices.