Question 305General Subjects - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is A. The engine should be decelerated from full sea speed to maneuvering speed very gradually, but should transition through any critical speeds without any lingering. This is the correct approach because transitioning through critical speeds quickly helps avoid potential issues like engine vibration or other mechanical stresses that can occur if the engine lingers too long in those speed ranges. However, the deceleration should still be gradual overall to avoid sudden changes in thrust and maintain control of the vessel. The other options are incorrect because B allows for lingering at critical speeds, C disregards critical speeds entirely, and D calls for an overly abrupt deceleration that could compromise vessel control.