Vessel Operation & Control 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 & Control flashcards as text
What is 'cavitation' on a boat propeller?
Answer: The formation and collapse of vapor bubbles on the propeller blades causing loss of thrust
Cavitation occurs when low pressure causes water to vaporize on the propeller surface; the collapsing bubbles reduce thrust and can damage the prop.
When operating in fog, what sound signal should a power-driven vessel underway make?
Answer: One prolonged blast every 2 minutes
Rule 35 requires a power-driven vessel making way through the water to sound one prolonged blast at intervals of not more than 2 minutes in restricted visibility.
What does 'freeboard' mean on a vessel?
Answer: The distance from the waterline to the top of the gunwale (deck edge)
Freeboard is the height of the hull above the waterline, which indicates how much reserve buoyancy remains before water can enter the vessel.
You are traveling at planing speed and need to stop quickly. What is the most effective method?
Answer: Gradually reduce throttle to idle, then shift to reverse
Reducing throttle first to idle before shifting to reverse prevents engine and drive damage, and allows the hull to settle off plane before reverse thrust is applied.
What is the effect of 'torque' from a single right-handed propeller on a vessel at low speed?
Answer: The stern tends to walk to port when in forward gear
A right-handed prop rotating clockwise in forward gear creates prop walk that tends to push the stern to port, affecting low-speed maneuvering.
What is the maximum number of people a vessel can legally carry?
Answer: The number listed on the capacity plate installed by the manufacturer
The USCG capacity plate specifies the maximum persons, weight, and horsepower the vessel is rated for — exceeding it is illegal and dangerous.
Which statement about operating a vessel in reverse is correct?
Answer: In reverse, the stern (rear) of the vessel leads and steering is more difficult
When reversing, the stern leads the bow, and water flow over the rudder or outdrive is reduced, making precise steering more challenging.