What does it mean to "heave to" a vessel?

The term "heave to" refers to a maneuver that allows a vessel to stabilize itself in the water, typically by balancing the forces of the wind and current. This is often done by adjusting the sails and rudder position so that the boat effectively stops making forward progress while still being able to maintain its position. Heaving to can serve several purposes, such as allowing for sail adjustments, providing a safe rest stop in challenging conditions, or waiting for better weather without drifting.

The other options do not accurately reflect the specific action and purpose of heaving to. Securing the vessel for docking involves different procedures focused on safely coming alongside and tying up at a dock. Navigating in reverse pertains to propulsion and maneuvering skills rather than the balanced stability involved in heaving to. Preparing a vessel for passengers involves a variety of pre-departure tasks unrelated to the stabilization of the vessel on the water. Therefore, the correct interpretation of "heave to" highlights the importance of stabilizing the vessel in its current location amidst environmental forces.