Yawing refers to the angular motion of the vessel about which axis?

Yawing is the rotational movement of a vessel around its vertical axis. This motion affects the direction in which the vessel is pointing while maintaining its position in the water. When a ship yaws, its bow or stern moves to one side or the other, allowing for changes in heading without significantly altering the vessel's speed or forward motion.

Understanding yawing is essential for navigational practices, as it helps operators adjust course without the need for excessive steering adjustments. In contrast, movements around the horizontal or transverse axes generally refer to pitching and rolling, which are associated with movements forward and backward or side to side, respectively. Similarly, motion around the longitudinal axis pertains to rolling, characterized by the vessel tilting from one side to the other. Thus, yawing distinctly involves the vertical axis, emphasizing the importance of orientation and navigational stability in maritime operations.