Question 59 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is D **Why option D ("Shift weight to the stern") is correct:** When a vessel is being towed, it is pulled from the bow. To prevent the stern from being thrown sideways (yawing) due to water resistance or uneven pulling, the vessel needs increased directional stability. Shifting weight to the stern (or transom) submerges the aft section of the hull more deeply, increasing the wetted surface area at the stern. This increase in lateral resistance at the stern acts like a larger keel or skeg, making the stern much harder to push sideways. This enhanced stability keeps the vessel tracking straight behind the towing vessel, minimizing yaw. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) Shift weight to the center of the boat:** While centering weight generally improves handling in some conditions, moving weight specifically to the center does not increase the directional stability (lateral resistance) needed at the stern to resist yawing while under tow. * **B) Shift weight to the bow:** Shifting weight to the bow significantly decreases the lateral resistance at the stern. This lightens the stern, making it much more susceptible to being thrown around by waves or prop wash from the towing vessel, thus drastically *increasing* the risk of severe yawing and broaching. * **C) Throw excess weight overboard:** Removing weight decreases the overall draft of the vessel. A shallower draft, especially at the stern, reduces the lateral resistance needed for directional stability, making the vessel more prone to yawing and less able to track straight.