Definition
Lee-shore risk is the loss of sea room or recovery margin when wind, waves, current, or equipment failure can drive a vessel toward a coast or other hazard from which it cannot safely manoeuvre away.
Why it matters
Anchoring, propulsion loss, delayed decision-making, and failed towing attempts can become critical when a vessel is exposed to a lee shore. This concept describes the operating geometry and consequence pathway, not a presumed cause in every grounding.