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
What action should you take when your vessel is overtaking another vessel?
Answer: The overtaking vessel must keep clear of the vessel being overtaken
Under COLREGS Rule 13, an overtaking vessel is the give-way vessel and must keep clear of the vessel it is passing, regardless of which side it passes on.
What is 'wake' and why does it matter legally?
Answer: The wave pattern behind your boat; you are responsible for damage it causes
Your vessel's wake is the wave pattern it creates, and operators are legally responsible for any damage or injury caused by their wake.
In what situation would you use a drogue (sea anchor)?
Answer: To slow the vessel and stabilize it stern-to in heavy weather
A drogue is deployed off the stern in heavy weather to slow the vessel, reduce the risk of broaching, and help maintain a controlled descent down wave faces.
When approaching a bridge that does not open on demand, what should you do?
Answer: Wait until the bridge opens on its posted schedule
Fixed-schedule bridges operate on posted timetables, so boaters must plan their arrival and wait for the scheduled opening.
What does 'freeboard' refer to on a vessel?
Answer: The distance from the waterline to the top edge of the hull
Freeboard is the vertical distance measured from the water's surface to the top of the hull side (gunwale), indicating how much reserve buoyancy remains.
What is the correct response when you hear five or more short blasts from another vessel?
Answer: It is a danger or doubt signal — assess the situation and take appropriate action
Five or more short blasts is the danger/doubt signal under COLREGS Rule 34(d), indicating the other operator is unsure of your intentions and a risk of collision may exist.
What is the primary cause of capsizing in small open boats?
Answer: Overloading or uneven weight distribution combined with sudden movement
Most small-boat capsizings result from exceeding the capacity rating or poor weight distribution, especially when passengers shift suddenly.