Which type of davit is the most common on merchant ships today?

Gravity davits are the most common type on merchant ships today due to their effectiveness and ease of operation. These davits utilize the force of gravity to lower lifeboats into the water. The design allows for a straightforward launching process that can be executed quickly, which is crucial in emergency situations where time is of the essence.

The mechanism typically involves a pivoting arm that allows the lifeboat to be swung outboard and lowered into the water efficiently. Gravity davits are appreciated for their reliability and lower mechanical complexity, making them a favorite choice in maritime safety applications.

Other types of davits, such as radial and vertical davits, while still in use, may not offer the same level of efficiency or ease of operation as gravity davits, particularly in the context of rapid response during an emergency evacuation.