Where does the hull meet the surface of the water?

The correct choice identifies the waterline as the point where the hull of a ship meets the surface of the water. This line is crucial for understanding the buoyancy and stability of the vessel. The waterline provides a visual indication of how much of the ship is submerged and how much is above water, which is essential for assessing the ship's load and ensuring that it remains stable while navigating.

In naval architecture, the waterline is also significant for calculating various aspects of a ship's performance, such as resistance, trim, and stability. It reflects the current loading of the ship, as loading changes can raise or lower the waterline depending on whether the vessel is more or less loaded.

Understanding the waterline helps sailors and maritime professionals maintain proper weight distribution and prevent issues that could compromise safety and performance on the water.