Deck Seamanship & Line Handling Flashcards

When heaving a line to a dock, what technique helps achieve maximum distance and accuracy?

Answer: Attach a monkey's fist to a messenger line and throw it

A monkey's fist weighted heaving line gives the thrower maximum range and accuracy when sending a messenger to the dock.

Which knot is most appropriate for temporarily joining two lines of equal diameter under high load?

Answer: Carrick bend

The carrick bend is preferred for joining heavy hawsers or lines under significant load because it does not jam and is easy to untie after loading.

What is the purpose of a 'stopper' when handling mooring lines?

Answer: To temporarily hold a line under tension while it is transferred to a winch or bollard

A stopper temporarily takes the load off a mooring line so it can be transferred to a different holding point without losing control of the vessel.

When a vessel is moored with spring lines, what primary function do they serve?

Answer: Prevent the vessel from moving ahead or astern along the dock

Spring lines run fore and aft at an angle to the dock to prevent the vessel from surging ahead or astern while moored.

What is the correct procedure when a line becomes 'overstrained' on a winch drum?

Answer: Ease tension carefully by surging the line under controlled conditions

An overstrained line should be eased by surging under control to reduce tension gradually, preventing parting or winch damage.

Which type of synthetic fiber line has the greatest elasticity and is often used as a 'shock absorber' in mooring systems?

Answer: Nylon

Nylon stretches up to 40% before breaking, making it ideal as a spring or shock-absorbing element in mooring arrangements.

When coiling a left-laid line for stowage, which direction should each loop be made?

Answer: Counterclockwise (against the lay)

Left-laid line should be coiled counterclockwise to follow its natural lay and prevent kinking or hockles forming in the line.