FREE OUPV Vessel Seamanship and Maneuvering Questions and Answers

Question 1

You are operating a single-screw vessel in a narrow channel, proceeding parallel and close to the starboard bank. Which hydrodynamic forces should you expect to affect your vessel?

Accepted Answer

The bow will be pushed away from the bank, and the stern will be pulled toward it.

Answer

The entire vessel will be pulled directly sideways into the bank.

Answer

The stern will be pushed away from the bank, and the bow will be pulled toward it.

Answer

The vessel's speed will increase significantly without a change in engine RPM.

Question 2

When anchoring in moderate weather, what is the generally recommended minimum scope, which is the ratio of anchor rode length to the sum of water depth and the vessel's freeboard?

Accepted Answer

5:1 to 7:1

Answer

2:1 to 3:1

Answer

10:1

Answer

3:1 to 4:1

Question 3

While operating in large following seas, your vessel is suddenly thrown sideways by a wave, becoming parallel to the wave crests and placing it in extreme danger of capsizing. This dangerous situation is known as:

Accepted Answer

Broaching

Answer

Pitchpoling

Answer

Heaving-to

Answer

Surfing

Question 4

Which of the following most accurately describes the effect of 'transverse thrust' (or 'propeller walk') on a single-screw vessel with a right-handed propeller?

Accepted Answer

In reverse, it tends to push the stern to port.

Answer

In reverse, it tends to push the stern to starboard.

Answer

In forward gear at cruising speed, it strongly pushes the bow to port.

Answer

It has no noticeable effect on vessel handling at low speeds.

Question 5

You are docked starboard side to a pier. A strong wind is blowing directly against your starboard beam, pinning the vessel to the dock. Which of the following is the most effective method to get underway?

Accepted Answer

Rig an after bow spring line, turn the rudder hard to starboard, and apply a short burst of forward power to pivot the stern out.

Answer

Put the engine in full reverse to try and pull the stern away from the dock.

Answer

Rig a forward quarter spring line and use forward power to pull the bow away from the dock first.

Answer

Cast off all lines simultaneously and use full reverse power.

Question 6

When towing another vessel, what is the primary purpose of maintaining a sag, or 'catenary,' in the towline?

Accepted Answer

To act as a shock absorber against sudden loads.

Answer

To keep the line from fouling in the propeller.

Answer

To shorten the effective length of the tow for better control.

Answer

To reduce the overall drag of the towline in the water.