Supertankers are massive ships used to transport oil and other liquids across the world's oceans. These behemoths can weigh as much as 500,000 tons when fully loaded, making them incredibly challenging to maneuver and bring to a stop. So, how long does it take a fully loaded supertanker to stop from travelling at normal speed?

Due to their immense size and weight, supertankers have a lot of momentum when moving at their normal cruising speed of around 15-18 knots (17-20 mph). It can take a fully loaded supertanker anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour to come to a complete stop, depending on various factors such as weather conditions, sea state, and the ship's speed at the time of braking.

When a supertanker needs to stop, the ship's captain will typically reduce the speed gradually by reducing engine power and using the ship's rudder to change course, creating drag and slowing down the vessel. This process can take a significant amount of time due to the ship's size and the amount of water it needs to displace to come to a halt.

Additionally, supertankers are equipped with powerful engines and thrusters to assist in maneuvering and stopping the ship in emergency situations. These engines can be used to reverse the ship's direction or provide additional braking power to help bring the vessel to a stop more quickly.

Overall, the stopping distance of a fully loaded supertanker can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of the situation. However, it is essential for the ship's crew to be prepared for emergencies and have a plan in place to safely stop the vessel in a timely manner to avoid collisions or other dangerous situations.

In conclusion, it can take a fully loaded supertanker anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour to stop from travelling at normal speed. The size, weight, and maneuverability of these massive ships make stopping a complex and time-consuming process that requires careful planning and skillful execution from the ship's crew.

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