An accurate inclining experiment becomes impractical when
the height of the centre-of-gravity (VCG or KG) is comparatively small
in relation to the height of the transverse metacentre (KMT), i.e.
when the metacentric height (GMT) is more than three times the KG.
When this is so, small percentage errors in determining the metacentric
height result in large percentage errors in centre-ofgravity height.
In such situations a careful calculation of VCG may be more accurate
than the results of an inclining experiment. A displacement check
should be undertaken to confirm the calculated lightship characteristics,
including VCG, which may be accepted if the measured lightship displacement
and LCG are respectively within 2% and 1% L relative to the estimate.
Similar considerations are provided for in paragraph 7.1.5 of the
Intact Stability Code (resolution A.749(18),
as amended).