Question 42 Deck General

70% to pass

You are at the helm of a sloop-rigged sailing vessel under sail on the port tack, on a beam reach, with all appropriate sails set and properly trimmed. You are instructed to "head up quickly". To utilize your sails to assist with the turn, you should _______________.

A slack the main sheet
B slack the jib sheet
C trim the foreguy
D slack the main outhaul
AI Explanation

The correct answer is B) slack the jib sheet. When instructed to "head up quickly" on a sloop-rigged sailing vessel, slacking the jib sheet will allow the jib sail to luff, which will help the vessel turn into the wind more quickly. Slacking the main sheet (A) would actually make it harder to turn the vessel, as it would reduce the drive from the mainsail. Trimming the foreguy (C) is not relevant to the task of turning the vessel. Slacking the main outhaul (D) would loosen the mainsail, but would not provide the same turning assistance as slacking the jib sheet.

Ready to test your knowledge?

Take a Deck General Practice Exam

Want to practice with timed exams?

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

Get the App