Question 172Safety & Environmental - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is C) unbalanced rudders. Lifeboats are typically equipped with unbalanced rudders, which means that the entire rudder blade is situated behind the rudder stock or pivot point. This design provides more directional control and responsiveness, which is crucial for the safe operation of a lifeboat in emergency situations. Unbalanced rudders are preferred over balanced rudders, which have a portion of the blade situated in front of the pivot point, as they offer better maneuverability and ease of handling in confined spaces or rough sea conditions. The other options, straight rudders (A) and contra-guide rudders (B), are not commonly used in lifeboat design, as they do not provide the same level of control and responsiveness as unbalanced rudders. Balanced rudders (D) are also not the standard configuration for most lifeboats.