Boat Handling & Operating Skills Flashcards
7 cards from real ALABAMA BOATERS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Boat Handling & Operating Skills flashcards as text
What is 'ferrying' technique used for when crossing a strong river current?
Answer: Angling the bow upstream and using engine power to cross while the current carries you
Ferrying involves angling the bow upstream at an angle so the current's push and engine thrust combine to move you across with minimal downstream drift.
When launching a boat from a trailer at a ramp, what is the correct sequence?
Answer: Back trailer into water until boat floats, then remove transom straps and bow line before starting engine
Back the trailer until the boat floats, then remove straps and the bow line — starting the engine on the ramp risks overheating with no water flow.
What navigational action should you take when you see a vessel's red and green bow lights directly ahead at night?
Answer: Alter course to starboard to pass port-to-port
Seeing both red and green bow lights ahead means you are in a head-on situation; both vessels should alter course to starboard.
How does engine placement (bow-heavy vs. stern-heavy loading) affect a boat's ability to plane?
Answer: Stern-heavy loading causes the bow to rise excessively, requiring more power to plane and reducing visibility
Excess stern weight raises the bow in a steep attitude that increases drag and requires significantly more throttle to achieve planing speed.
When operating in shallow water, why should you tilt your outboard motor up slightly?
Answer: To prevent the propeller and lower unit from striking the bottom
Tilting the motor slightly up in shallow water raises the propeller and lower unit to avoid striking bottom obstructions or the bottom itself.
What does it mean when you hear five or more short blasts from a vessel's horn?
Answer: It is a danger or distress signal indicating the other vessel is unsure of your intentions
Five or more short blasts is the danger/doubt signal, meaning the other operator does not understand your intentions and believes a collision risk exists.
What is the safest way to fuel a boat with an inboard gasoline engine?
Answer: Shut off the engine, close all ports and hatches, fuel slowly, then ventilate the bilge for at least 4 minutes before starting
Gasoline fumes are heavier than air and accumulate in the bilge; closing hatches while fueling prevents fumes from spreading, and ventilating before starting prevents explosion.