Vessel Operation and Handling 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 Vessel Operation and Handling flashcards as text
When operating in a narrow channel, where should you position your vessel?
Answer: As far to the starboard side as is safe and practical
Rule 9 of the COLREGS requires vessels in a narrow channel to keep as far to the starboard (right) side as is safe and practical.
You are approaching a dock with a strong current pushing you toward it. What is the safest technique?
Answer: Approach slowly into the current so it helps slow your vessel
Approaching into the current allows the current to act as a natural brake, giving you better speed control when docking.
What does 'leeway' mean in vessel operation?
Answer: The sideways drift of a vessel caused by wind or current
Leeway is the lateral (sideways) movement of a vessel caused by wind or current pushing it off its intended course.
When backing a single-engine outboard vessel, the stern tends to swing in which direction?
Answer: In the same direction the propeller rotates
Propeller torque causes the stern of a single-engine boat to walk sideways in the same rotational direction as the propeller when in reverse.
What is the primary purpose of trim tabs on a powerboat?
Answer: To adjust the running angle of the hull for efficiency and comfort
Trim tabs are adjustable flaps at the stern that change the boat's running angle (pitch), improving fuel efficiency, speed, and ride comfort.
A vessel is said to be 'in irons' when it:
Answer: Is stuck head-to-wind with no steerage
A sailboat is 'in irons' when it has turned into the wind and lost enough speed to have no steerage, leaving it stalled and unable to maneuver.
What effect does a following sea (waves coming from behind) have on vessel handling?
Answer: It can cause the vessel to yaw or broach if not managed carefully
A following sea can cause a vessel to yaw (turn sideways) or broach (swing broadside to waves), which is especially dangerous for smaller boats.