Question 2729 Deck General

The correct answer is C) must be fixed if the vessel exceeds 12 meters in length. The reasoning is that according to US Coast Guard regulations, vessels over 12 meters (approximately 39 feet) in length are required to have a fixed bilge pump system. This ensures that the vessel has a reliable and permanently installed means of removing water from the bilge, which is critical for maintaining the vessel's watertight integrity and safety. The other options are incorrect because: A) the number of watertight compartments does not determine if the bilge pump must be portable, C) is the correct requirement, and D) specifies a flow rate requirement, which is separate from the fixed versus portable pump requirement.