Length overall (LOA) means The maximum length of a vessel's hull measured parallel to the waterline, usually measured on the hull alone, and including overhanging ends that extend beyond the main bow and main stern perpendicular members.
For sailing vessels, this may exclude the bowsprit and other fittings added to the hull, but sometimes bowsprits are included.
This length is important while docking of the ship. It is the most commonly used way of expressing the size of a boat, and is also used for calculating the cost of being in a marina or port.
List of books: Length,overall