Boat Operation & Maneuvering Flashcards
7 cards from real Boating Certification Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Boat Operation & Maneuvering flashcards as text
When docking a single-engine outboard boat with a right-hand propeller, you should approach the dock from which direction to use prop walk to your advantage?
Answer: Starboard side
A right-hand propeller in reverse pulls the stern to port, so approaching with the dock on the starboard side lets prop walk assist in docking.
What is the recommended technique for making a sharp turn at low speed in a powerboat?
Answer: Turn the wheel hard and apply a brief burst of forward throttle
A brief burst of forward throttle while turning hard provides water flow over the rudder or steering mechanism, improving turning response at low speed.
When operating in a narrow channel, a vessel should keep to which side of the channel?
Answer: The starboard (right) side
Rule 9 of the COLREGS requires vessels in narrow channels to keep as far to the starboard side of the channel as is safe and practicable.
What is 'cavitation' in the context of boat propulsion?
Answer: Formation of vapor bubbles on the propeller blades that collapse and cause damage
Cavitation occurs when low pressure on the propeller blade causes water to vaporize, forming bubbles that implode and erode the propeller surface.
You are traveling upstream on a river and meet a downbound vessel. Which vessel has the right of way?
Answer: The downbound vessel, because it has less maneuverability due to the current
Vessels proceeding downstream (downbound) with a following current have restricted maneuverability and are given right of way over upbound vessels on rivers.
What is the proper response when your boat's engine fails in a shipping lane?
Answer: Display the signal for a vessel not under command and move out of the lane if possible
A vessel not under command must display two all-round red lights or two black balls and take steps to move out of the shipping lane as soon as possible.
When operating a PWC (personal watercraft), how does steering differ from a conventional motorboat?
Answer: PWC requires throttle to be applied to steer; no thrust means no steering control
PWC are jet-propelled and steer by directing the jet stream; releasing the throttle cuts jet flow, eliminating steering control even though the craft continues moving.