You are taking the bow line from the port bow of a... - USCG Deck General

You are taking the bow line from the port bow of a large vessel that is underway when the stern of your tug comes in contact with the vessel. The forward motion of both vessels causes your tug to be turned toward the other vessel and contact the stem thereby being "stemmed". You should immediately _______________.

A go full ahead with the rudder amidships

B go full astern with rudder amidships

C go full ahead with the rudder hard over to starboard

D stop engines and the vessel's wake will push you clear of the bow

AI Explanation

The correct answer is B) go full astern with rudder amidships. When the stern of your tug comes in contact with the larger vessel that is underway, the forward motion of both vessels is causing your tug to be "stemmed" against the stem of the other vessel. In this situation, the safest and most appropriate action is to immediately go full astern with the rudder amidships. This will stop the forward motion of your tug and allow you to safely back away from the contact with the other vessel. The other options are incorrect because: A) going full ahead with the rudder amidships would increase the forward motion and worsen the contact; C) going full ahead with the rudder hard over to starboard would likely result in further impact and potential damage; and D) stopping the engines and relying on the vessel's wake to push you clear is not a reliable or safe maneuver in this situation.

Want to practice with timed exams?

Download Coast Guard Exams for the full exam experience with progress tracking.

Get the App

Question 4102 Deck General

Want to practice with timed exams?