Question 3920 Deck General

The correct answer is A) An increase in speed results in the stern sucking down lower than the bow. This is because as a vessel's speed increases in shallow water, the water flow around the hull creates a suction effect that causes the stern to squat down lower than the bow. This is known as the "squat" effect, and it can significantly reduce the available underkeel clearance, increasing the risk of grounding or striking submerged obstacles. The other answer choices are incorrect because B) a decrease in speed would improve steering response and maneuverability, C) an increase in speed would not result in the vessel rising on an even plane, and D) a decrease in speed would not cause the vessel to "suck down" on an even plane.