Question 55 OSV01 - Master/Chief Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Grass):** Danforth-style anchors (like the lightweight versions) are designed to dig into the seabed. They have large, high-holding flukes attached to a central shank. When the anchor hits a grassy or heavily weeded bottom, the flukes often slide along the tough, matted roots and vegetation without being able to penetrate the underlying sediment effectively. This resistance prevents the anchor from setting properly, causing it to skip or drag across the bottom and fail to hold the vessel securely. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) Clay:** Danforth anchors perform exceptionally well in firm clay. Once the anchor digs past the surface, the narrow, high-holding flukes penetrate the dense clay and often require significant force to dislodge, providing excellent holding power. * **C) Sand:** Danforth anchors are particularly renowned for their superior performance in sand. The large surface area of the flukes allows them to bury themselves deeply into sandy bottoms, generating maximum resistance and holding power. * **D) Mud:** While deep, soft mud may slightly reduce the holding power compared to firm sand or clay, the large flukes of a Danforth anchor are designed to provide strong suction and holding power, even when buried in moderately soft or consolidated mud. They generally hold well unless the mud is exceptionally soupy and unstable.