Length overall (LOA)

Length overall, LOA, is the greatest length of the ship measured parallel to the waterline between the extreme forward and after points, including bow and stern overhangs, a projecting bulbous bow, and any fixed structure. It governs berth, lock, dry-dock, and canal limits and is the figure port tariffs and pilotage often bill on, so it is the operationally binding dimension even though it is not used for hydrostatics or scantlings. LOA exceeds LWL and LBP because it captures the parts of the hull outside the perpendiculars; the difference is set by stem rake, the bulb projection, and any counter or transom overhang aft. A separate length over fittings may add removable items such as anchors beyond the LOA.