What is the term for the horizontal fore and aft movement of a vessel?

The term that refers to the horizontal fore and aft movement of a vessel is surge. This movement occurs along the length of the ship, typically being characterized by the vessel moving forward and backward in response to wave motion or thrust from the engines. Understanding these terms is crucial for individuals involved in marine operations, as they are fundamental to the behavior of vessels in water.

Sway pertains to side-to-side movement of a vessel, while heaving describes vertical movement, specifically the up-and-down motion of the hull in response to waves. Therefore, recognizing these distinctions in movement terminology contributes to a clearer understanding of maritime operations and vessel dynamics.