Seamanship quiz
Posted on 29 March 2012
Written by Michael LaBella
Test your knowledge with these Coast Guard license exam prep questions from the National Captain’s Institute
www.captains.com
1. INTERNATIONAL RULES: A vessel wishing to overtake another vessel on her starboard side in a narrow channel would sound which signal?
A. 1 prolonged, 1 short, 1 prolonged, 1 short
B. 2 prolonged and 2 short
C. 2 prolonged and 1 short
D. no signal required unless changing course
2. INTERNATIONAL RULES: Two red lights in a vertical line indicate:
A. vessel aground
B. not under command
C. stationary dredge
D. restricted in ability to maneuver
3. INTERNATIONAL RULES: A sailing vessel is on your power vessel’s port side in a
crossing situation. Who has the right of way?
A. sailing vessel because it is on your
port side
B. sailing vessel because it is a sailing vessel
C. you because the sailboat is to port
D. you because you are to starboard of the sailboat
4. When you are steering on a pair of range lights and discover the upper light is to the right of the lower light you should:
A. come right
B. come left
C. stop and wait for alignment
D. continue on course
5. Magnetic variation differs:
A. between compasses
B. with change in geographic location
C. with changes in headings
D. with changes in speed
Answers:
1.C, Rule 34 (c) 2.B, Rule 27, 3.B, Rule 18 4.B 5.B
This article originally appeared in the April 2012 issue.
