Question 118 Deck General

The correct answer is D) Any of the above. The reason this is the correct answer is that all of the listed actions can help reduce the heeling of the vessel in this situation. Shifting weight to the port side will help counteract the starboard heel, easing the sheets will allow the air to spill off the sail and reduce the heeling force, and sailing closer to the wind will decrease the wind force on the sail. Any of these actions can be effective in reducing the sharp heel caused by the sudden gust of wind. The other options are not incorrect, as they all represent reasonable steps that a mariner could take to address the heeling issue. However, the question specifically asks for the action that will "reduce the heeling of the vessel," and in this case, any of the listed actions would be appropriate and effective.