AB Navigation & Watchstanding 5

Question 1

A vessel displaying a black ball forward during daylight hours is indicating that she is:

Accepted Answer

At anchor

Answer

COLREGS Rule 30 requires a vessel at anchor to display one black ball in the forward part of the vessel during daylight hours.

Question 2

What is the meaning of the term 'deviation' as used in compass adjustment?

Accepted Answer

The error of the magnetic compass caused by the ship's own magnetic fields

Answer

Deviation is the error in a magnetic compass caused by the vessel's own iron, steel, and electrical equipment — it changes with the ship's heading.

Question 3

During a watch handover, which information is essential to pass to the relieving officer?

Accepted Answer

Course, speed, position, traffic situation, weather, and any outstanding orders

Answer

A proper watch handover must include course, speed, position, traffic in the area, weather, visibility, standing orders, and any abnormal conditions or tasks in progress.

Question 4

Under COLREGS Rule 9, a vessel of less than 20 meters in length navigating in a narrow channel shall:

Accepted Answer

Not impede the passage of a vessel that can only safely navigate within the channel

Answer

Rule 9 requires small vessels (under 20 m) and sailing vessels not to impede the passage of vessels that can only safely navigate within a narrow channel.

Question 5

When a helmsman is steering by gyrocompass and the order 'meet her' is given, the helmsman should:

Accepted Answer

Apply opposite rudder to check the vessel's swing and steady on the new heading

Answer

'Meet her' means apply counter-rudder to stop the swing so the vessel steadies on or near the intended heading without overshooting.

(AB) Able Seaman Exam Practice Test

(AB) Able Seaman Exam Practice Test

AB Navigation & Watchstanding 5