Question 64 OSV01 - Master/Chief Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (The anchor's ability to dig in):** The holding capability of an anchor refers to its ability to resist horizontal force (pull) exerted by the vessel, thereby keeping the vessel in place. This capability is almost entirely dependent on how effectively the anchor buries itself into the seabed (i.e., its ability to "dig in"). Once buried, the resistance created by the fluke area and the surrounding soil mass provides the necessary holding power. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) The stowage of the anchor on board:** This relates purely to how the anchor is stored or secured when not in use (e.g., in the hawsepipe or on deck). It has no bearing on its mechanical performance or holding power when deployed. * **B) The size of the vessel and its draft:** These factors determine the required holding power needed for the vessel (a larger vessel needs a stronger anchor), but they do not describe the inherent holding *capability* of the anchor itself. * **C) The shape of the anchor:** While the shape (design) of the anchor significantly *influences* its ability to dig in and hold, the shape itself is not the indicator of the holding capability. The *result* of a good shape is the ability to dig in, which is the direct indicator (D).