Following are the signs of a vessel experiencing squat -

1. Mean body sinkage increases
2. Ship generally develops extra trim by bow or stern
3. Wave making increases especially at bow
4. Ship become more sluggish to maneuver
5. Draft indicators indicate change in draft
6. Propeller RPM indicator show a decrease
7.Drop in speed
8. Sudden vibration
9. Any rolling, pitching and heaving motions will all be reduced
10. Appearance of mud in water
11. Turning circle diameter increase
12. Stopping distances and time increase
13. Effectiveness of rudder decreases
14. Width of wake increases.