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Coastguard NZ Day Skipper study materials
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Coastguard NZ Day Skipper practice questions

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Question 1Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Under New Zealand maritime rules, which item must every person on board a recreational vessel have access to for each individual?

  1. A waterproof torch attached to the lifebuoy
  2. A serviceable personal flotation device of the correct size Correct answer.
  3. A hand-held VHF radio for each crew member
  4. A shared thermal blanket stored in the bow locker

Explanation

New Zealand rules require a correctly sized, serviceable personal flotation device for every person on board, and it must be readily accessible rather than stowed away. Sharing one device between two people leaves someone unprotected if the vessel capsizes suddenly.

Question 2Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

In New Zealand waters, which option best states when children under five must wear a personal flotation device on a recreational boat 6 metres or less in length, assuming no specific exemption applies?

  1. While the boat is underway, and during heightened-risk situations Correct answer.
  2. Only when the vessel is crossing a harbour bar
  3. Only when the sea state exceeds half a metre
  4. Whenever the skipper considers the weather to be deteriorating

Explanation

The national rule effective from 9 October 2026 requires everyone, including children under five, to wear a lifejacket while underway on recreational craft 6 metres or less in length. Heightened-risk requirements also apply on all craft. This is not a separate nationwide age-based rule requiring under-fives to wear one at all times aboard.

Question 3Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You are the skipper of a small open boat and the weather forecast has just been upgraded to a strong wind warning. What is the most appropriate action before departure?

  1. Depart as planned and turn back if conditions become uncomfortable
  2. Postpone or cancel the trip and choose a more sheltered activity Correct answer.
  3. Reduce the number of crew so the boat sits higher in the water
  4. Increase speed to reach shelter before the wind arrives

Explanation

A strong wind warning means conditions are likely to exceed what a small open boat can safely handle, so the prudent decision is to postpone or cancel. Leaving and hoping to turn back exposes everyone to risk with limited options once offshore.

Question 4Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the purpose of the kill switch lanyard on a small powerboat?

  1. It prevents the engine from starting unless the battery is fully charged
  2. It stops the engine if the skipper falls overboard or moves away from the helm Correct answer.
  3. It locks the steering wheel when the boat is moored
  4. It automatically deploys the anchor if the boat drifts

Explanation

The lanyard connects the skipper to the kill switch so that if the skipper falls or is thrown from the helm, the engine stops immediately. This prevents the boat from circling back over the person in the water.

Question 5Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is the correct way to fit a personal flotation device before getting under way?

  1. Wear it loosely so it can be removed quickly in an emergency
  2. Fasten all straps and clips snugly so it cannot ride up over the head Correct answer.
  3. Wear it over a heavy jacket without adjusting the waist strap
  4. Carry it in a dry bag and put it on only if the weather worsens

Explanation

A personal flotation device only works if it stays in place, so all straps and clips must be fastened snugly enough that it cannot slide up over the wearer's head. A loose device can float away from the body and leave the airway unsupported.

Question 6Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does the term 'port side' mean when describing a vessel?

  1. The left-hand side when facing the bow Correct answer.
  2. The right-hand side when facing the bow
  3. The rear section of the hull
  4. The area around the anchor locker

Explanation

Port is the left-hand side of a vessel when you are looking forward towards the bow, and starboard is the right-hand side. Using these fixed terms avoids confusion when giving directions on board.

Question 7Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

On a recreational vessel, what is the skipper legally responsible for?

  1. Only the navigation of the vessel while it is moving
  2. Only the conduct of hired crew members
  3. The maintenance of the marina berth the vessel uses
  4. The safety of the vessel and everyone on board at all times Correct answer.

Explanation

The skipper is responsible for the safety of the vessel and all people on board, whether the vessel is moving, anchored or moored. This duty covers equipment, weather decisions and the behaviour of those on board.

Question 8Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is a recognised way to reduce the risk of becoming cold and exhausted on a day trip in an open boat?

  1. Removing shoes and socks to improve grip on the deck
  2. Wearing several loose cotton layers over swimwear
  3. Wearing a windproof outer layer over insulating layers and keeping dry Correct answer.
  4. Drinking alcohol to stay warm while under way

Explanation

Staying dry and blocking wind are the key defences against hypothermia on the water, so a windproof outer layer over insulating layers is the correct approach. Wet clothing loses most of its insulating value and accelerates heat loss.

Question 9Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the main hazard of a following sea when running a small boat downwind?

  1. The anchor will deploy by itself
  2. The compass will lose magnetic north
  3. The bow may dig in and the boat may be pooped or broach Correct answer.
  4. The propeller will always cavitate

Explanation

A following sea pushes the stern, and if a wave breaks over the transom the boat can be pooped and then broach sideways to the waves. Keeping speed controlled and avoiding a heavy quartering sea reduces this risk.

Question 10Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You are approaching a bar entrance and the outgoing tide is running against a large swell. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Cross at speed regardless of the wave pattern
  2. Hug the shallowest water to stay clear of the main channel
  3. Turn side-on to the waves to reduce pitching
  4. Wait for calmer conditions or an ebb-tide slack period and assess before crossing Correct answer.

Explanation

An ebb tide against a swell produces steep, breaking waves on a bar, so the safe approach is to wait for better conditions, such as slack water, and assess the sets before committing. Crossing a breaking bar in poor conditions risks capsize or swamping.

Question 11Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which action best describes 'making fast' a line on board?

  1. Coiling the line neatly for storage
  2. Cutting the line to the required length
  3. Throwing the line to a person on the shore
  4. Securing the line to a cleat or fitting so it cannot slip Correct answer.

Explanation

Making fast means securing a line to a cleat, bollard or other fitting so that it holds under load without slipping. A properly made fast line is turned around the fitting and finished so it cannot come loose.

Question 12Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the correct sequence when preparing to leave a marina berth in a crosswind?

  1. Leave the stern line attached while motoring forward at full throttle
  2. Release all lines at once and accelerate hard away from the berth
  3. Check the engine starts and lines are ready, then let go the lines in a controlled order Correct answer.
  4. Ask a passer-by to hold the bow while you reverse out

Explanation

Before letting go, confirm the engine is running reliably and that lines and fenders are ready, then release lines in a planned order so the vessel can be controlled as the wind takes effect. Releasing everything at once removes control at the moment it is most needed.

Question 13Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A vessel displaying a black ball shape in daylight is most likely to be doing what?

  1. Constrained by her draught
  2. Under way and making way through the water
  3. Towing a vessel astern
  4. At anchor or aground Correct answer.

Explanation

A single black ball is the daytime signal for a vessel at anchor, and the same shape is used by a vessel aground. It warns other craft that the vessel is not under way and may be unable to manoeuvre.

Question 14Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the purpose of a safety briefing for passengers before departure?

  1. To demonstrate that the skipper holds a certificate
  2. To satisfy the marina office that the vessel is insured
  3. To record the names of passengers for the harbourmaster
  4. To show where safety equipment is and how to use it in an emergency Correct answer.

Explanation

A safety briefing tells passengers where the personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers and radios are and how to use them, so they can act correctly if something goes wrong. It is about practical readiness, not paperwork.

Question 15Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You notice a person in the water on your starboard side. Which immediate action should the skipper take first?

  1. Reduce speed, keep the person in sight and throw a buoyant aid Correct answer.
  2. Send a mayday before doing anything else
  3. Turn the vessel away so the propeller is not near the person
  4. Reverse towards the person to close the distance quickly

Explanation

The priority in a man-overboard situation is to slow down, keep visual contact and get flotation to the person as soon as possible. A buoyant aid buys time while the vessel is manoeuvred back for recovery.

Question 16Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these describes the correct use of a fire extinguisher on a small boat?

  1. Aim at the base of the fire from close range and sweep across it Correct answer.
  2. Spray from as far away as possible to stay clear of smoke
  3. Discharge the whole extinguisher in one spot at the top of the flames
  4. Aim at the flames from a distance and sweep side to side

Explanation

An extinguisher works by smothering the fuel, so the nozzle should be aimed at the base of the fire from close range and swept across it. Spraying at the flames or from too far away wastes the agent before it reaches the fuel.

Question 17Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does a marine weather forecast term 'sea breeze' typically describe?

  1. A wind blowing from the land towards the sea at night
  2. A current running parallel to the shoreline
  3. A wind generated only by passing frontal systems
  4. A daytime onshore wind caused by land heating faster than the sea Correct answer.

Explanation

During the day the land heats faster than the sea, so air rises over land and cooler air flows onshore as a sea breeze. It is a local, thermally driven wind that can strengthen quickly on sunny afternoons.

Question 18Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Why should a skipper check the tide tables before planning a trip through a shallow channel?

  1. To determine the magnetic variation for the compass
  2. To ensure there is enough depth of water at the planned time of passage Correct answer.
  3. To confirm the wind direction at the destination
  4. To find out the water temperature for swimming

Explanation

Tide tables give the predicted height of tide, which determines the depth of water over a shallow channel at a given time. Planning the passage around high water reduces the risk of running aground.

Question 19Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which statement correctly distinguishes 'making way' from 'under way'?

  1. Under way means moving through the water; making way means anchored
  2. Making way means moving through the water; under way means not anchored or aground Correct answer.
  3. Under way applies only to sailing vessels
  4. Both terms mean the vessel is stationary

Explanation

A vessel is under way when it is not at anchor, aground or made fast to the shore, even if it is drifting. Making way means the vessel is actually moving through the water under its own power or sail.

Question 20Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You are planning a short trip and the marine forecast gives a 'moderate' sea and a wind of 15 knots. What does this generally mean for a small open boat?

  1. Conditions are manageable for an experienced crew in a suitable boat with caution Correct answer.
  2. Conditions guarantee flat water close to shore
  3. Conditions are calm and suitable for any small craft
  4. Conditions are too dangerous for any recreational vessel

Explanation

A 15-knot wind with a moderate sea is within the capability of a well-found small boat handled by an experienced crew, but it requires caution and appropriate gear. It is not calm, and it is not automatically unsafe for every vessel.

Question 21Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the purpose of a bailer or bucket carried on a small open boat?

  1. To measure the depth of water under the keel
  2. To store bait and keep the deck clean
  3. To remove water that has come aboard Correct answer.
  4. To signal to other vessels in fog

Explanation

A bailer is a manual pump for removing water that enters an open boat, for example from spray or a swamping wave. Keeping it accessible means water can be cleared before it affects stability.

Question 22Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper notices that the boat is becoming sluggish and the engine note has changed after picking up weed. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Increase throttle to burn off the weed
  2. Run the engine at high speed to flush the intake
  3. Ignore it until the next scheduled service
  4. Stop in a safe location and clear the obstruction, checking the cooling water intake Correct answer.

Explanation

Weed or debris blocking the cooling intake reduces water flow and can cause overheating, so the safe response is to stop in a safe place and clear it. Continuing at higher throttle increases heat and the risk of engine damage.

Question 23Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Two powerboats are approaching head-on in open water with no other traffic. What is the correct action to avoid a collision?

  1. Both alter course to starboard so they pass port to port Correct answer.
  2. The vessel on the left alters course to port
  3. Both maintain course and speed
  4. The smaller vessel must stop and wait

Explanation

When two power-driven vessels meet head-on, each must alter course to starboard so they pass port to port, leaving a safe margin. Maintaining course and speed risks a collision.

Question 24Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A vessel is showing two black balls in a vertical line in daylight. What does this indicate?

  1. The vessel is engaged in fishing
  2. The vessel is constrained by her draught
  3. The vessel is not under command Correct answer.
  4. The vessel is aground

Explanation

Two black balls in a vertical line are the daytime signal for a vessel not under command, meaning it cannot manoeuvre as required. Other craft must keep clear and give it room.

Question 25Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You are caught in fog in a small powerboat with no radar. Which combination of actions best matches good practice?

  1. Stop the engine completely and drift until the fog clears
  2. Increase speed to clear the area quickly and sound no signals
  3. Reduce speed to a safe level, sound the required fog signals and post a lookout Correct answer.
  4. Head straight for the nearest shore at full speed

Explanation

In restricted visibility a vessel must proceed at a safe speed, sound the prescribed fog signals and keep a proper lookout by sight and hearing. Reducing speed gives time to react to another vessel or hazard that appears suddenly.

Question 26Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Under New Zealand rules, what minimum length of vessel must carry a lifejacket of the correct size for each person on board?

  1. Only vessels operating beyond sheltered waters
  2. Every recreational vessel of any length Correct answer.
  3. Only vessels over 8 metres
  4. Only vessels over 6 metres

Explanation

New Zealand maritime rules require a correctly fitting lifejacket for every person on board any recreational vessel, regardless of length. Skippers must also ensure they are worn when conditions or the skipper's judgement make it necessary. Length of vessel does not remove this obligation.

Question 27Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

In New Zealand, what is the legal alcohol limit for a person operating a recreational vessel?

  1. 100 micrograms per litre of breath, or 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood
  2. 400 micrograms per litre of breath, or 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood
  3. No limit applies to recreational vessels
  4. 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, or 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood Correct answer.

Explanation

Maritime rules apply the same limits to recreational vessel operators as to road drivers: 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath or 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. Exceeding these limits while operating a vessel is an offence. Skippers remain responsible for the safety of everyone on board.

Question 28Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which piece of equipment is required to be carried on a recreational vessel operating in New Zealand coastal waters to summon help in a distress?

  1. A means of signalling distress, such as flares or an approved electronic device Correct answer.
  2. A spare propeller
  3. A second anchor
  4. A depth sounder

Explanation

Vessels must carry an approved means of signalling distress so help can be summoned if needed. This may be flares or an accepted electronic distress device depending on the area of operation. Spare propellers, extra anchors and depth sounders are useful but are not distress signalling equipment.

Question 29Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does the term 'starboard' mean when describing a vessel?

  1. The rear of the vessel
  2. The right-hand side when facing forward Correct answer.
  3. The front of the vessel
  4. The left-hand side when facing forward

Explanation

Starboard is the right-hand side of the vessel when you are facing the bow. Port is the left-hand side. Using these fixed terms avoids confusion when giving helm orders.

Question 30Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is the correct way to fit a lifejacket before departure?

  1. Carry it in a locker and put it on only if the weather deteriorates
  2. Fasten all straps and adjust them so the jacket cannot ride up over the head Correct answer.
  3. Fasten only the waist strap and leave the chest straps open
  4. Wear it loosely so it can be removed quickly in the water

Explanation

A lifejacket must be fastened and adjusted so it stays in place and cannot slip over the head when you enter the water. A loose jacket can be forced off by wave action. It should be worn, not left in a locker, when conditions or the skipper require it.

Question 31Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the main reason for checking the marine weather forecast before a day trip?

  1. To choose the colour of the day's flag
  2. To decide whether the planned trip is within the capability of the boat and crew Correct answer.
  3. To determine the vessel's registration number
  4. To calculate the fuel consumption of the engine

Explanation

The forecast lets the skipper judge whether wind, sea and visibility will be within the limits of the vessel and crew. It also helps in planning alternatives if conditions change. Fuel use, registration and flags are unrelated to the forecast.

Question 32Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is the correct action when a person falls overboard from a small powerboat?

  1. Accelerate away to fetch help from another vessel
  2. Turn the engine off and wait for the person to swim back
  3. Continue on course and call for assistance on the radio
  4. Immediately throw a flotation device, keep the person in sight and manoeuvre back to them Correct answer.

Explanation

The first priorities are to get flotation to the person and keep them in sight while the boat is manoeuvred back. Losing sight of the person is the greatest danger. The skipper should then recover them, taking care to approach into wind and stop the propeller.

Question 33Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper is heading out through a narrow harbour entrance with a strong crosswind and a rising tide. Which action best reflects good seamanship?

  1. Turn back only after entering the entrance
  2. Increase speed to shorten the time spent in the entrance
  3. Slow down, assess the set of wind and tide, and choose a transit that keeps the boat clear of hazards Correct answer.
  4. Steer close to the lee shore to stay out of the wind

Explanation

In a confined entrance, wind and tide set the boat sideways, so the skipper should reduce speed, judge the combined effect and pick a safe line. Increasing speed reduces reaction time and close proximity to a lee shore increases grounding risk. The decision to proceed should be made before entering.

Question 34Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these best describes the purpose of a pre-departure checklist on a small recreational vessel?

  1. To replace the need for a weather forecast
  2. To record the names of everyone who has ever crewed on the vessel
  3. To make sure critical items and systems are checked in the same order every time Correct answer.
  4. To satisfy the harbourmaster that the vessel is registered

Explanation

A checklist ensures that important items such as fuel, lifejackets, communications and engine checks are not overlooked when the skipper is busy. It standardises the routine so nothing is missed. It does not replace a forecast or fulfil a registration requirement.

Question 35Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does the term 'freeboard' describe on a small boat?

  1. The width of the boat at its widest point
  2. The depth of water under the keel
  3. The length of the boat from bow to stern
  4. The height of the hull side above the waterline Correct answer.

Explanation

Freeboard is the distance from the waterline to the deck edge or gunwale. Greater freeboard gives more reserve buoyancy and keeps water out. Length, depth under the keel and beam are different measurements.

Question 36Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Why should a skipper avoid overloading a small open boat with passengers and gear?

  1. It makes the engine run too cold
  2. Excess weight reduces freeboard and increases the risk of swamping Correct answer.
  3. It causes the compass to read backwards
  4. It prevents the anchor from holding

Explanation

Overloading lowers the hull in the water, reducing freeboard and reserve buoyancy so waves can more easily come aboard. It also affects stability and handling. Engine temperature, anchor holding and compass readings are not directly caused by overloading.

Question 37Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the correct way to approach a person in the water when recovering them onto a small powerboat?

  1. Approach with the engine running and propeller turning
  2. Approach downwind at speed and lift them over the bow
  3. Approach into the wind and sea, stop the engine, and bring them alongside the leeward side Correct answer.
  4. Approach from directly ahead and stop only when contact is made

Explanation

Approaching into wind and sea gives better control and slows the boat, and stopping the engine removes the propeller hazard. Bringing the person alongside the leeward side gives shelter from wind and waves. This makes recovery safer for both the person and the crew.

Question 38Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the purpose of a marine VHF radio channel 16?

  1. It is reserved for weather broadcasts
  2. It is the distress, safety and calling channel monitored by rescue services Correct answer.
  3. It is used only for routine ship-to-ship chat
  4. It is used only for marina bookings

Explanation

Channel 16 is the international distress, safety and calling frequency. Distress calls are made on it, and routine calls should move to a working channel after contact is established. It is monitored by rescue authorities.

Question 39Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is the correct way to secure a line to a cleat on board?

  1. Tie a single half hitch around the cleat horn
  2. Wrap the line around the winch and leave it there permanently
  3. Take a full turn around the base, then figure-eight turns and finish with a locking turn Correct answer.
  4. Loop the line once over the horn and leave it

Explanation

A full turn around the cleat base gives friction, and figure-eight turns spread the load so the line holds. A locking turn finishes it so the line cannot slip. A single loop or half hitch can slip under load.

Question 40Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does a 'spring' line do when mooring a boat alongside a berth?

  1. It runs across the boat to pull it away from the berth
  2. It is a line used only for towing
  3. It is used to lift the anchor
  4. It runs fore and aft to stop the boat moving along the berth Correct answer.

Explanation

Spring lines run roughly fore and aft and control movement along the berth, preventing the boat from surging forward or back. Breast lines run across to hold the boat in to the berth. Anchor and towing lines are separate.

Question 41Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper notices the boat is taking on water and the bilge pump is not keeping up. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Continue on course and check again at the destination
  2. Open the seacocks to let the water out
  3. Increase speed to drain the water out the stern
  4. Slow or stop the boat, find and stem the leak, and call for assistance Correct answer.

Explanation

Slowing the boat reduces the flow into the hull and gives time to find and plug the leak, while a distress or urgency call brings help. Increasing speed or opening seacocks admits more water. Continuing on course risks the vessel sinking.

Question 42Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the main reason for keeping a proper lookout by sight and hearing at all times?

  1. To confirm the vessel's registration details
  2. To detect other vessels and hazards early enough to take avoiding action Correct answer.
  3. To monitor the engine temperature gauge
  4. To check the fuel level in the tank

Explanation

A proper lookout allows the skipper to spot other vessels, hazards and changes in conditions in time to act. It is a fundamental requirement of good seamanship. Engine, fuel and registration checks are separate tasks.

Question 43Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What does the term 'set' refer to when describing a tidal stream?

  1. The direction in which the tidal stream is flowing Correct answer.
  2. The time between high and low water
  3. The height of the tide above chart datum
  4. The speed of the tidal stream in knots

Explanation

Set is the direction the tidal stream flows, while drift is its speed. Tide height and the interval between tides are separate tidal concepts. Knowing both set and drift is essential for passage planning.

Question 44Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

Which of these is the correct action when a fire breaks out in the engine space of a small boat?

  1. Pour water into the engine space
  2. Stop the engine and fuel supply, then discharge the extinguisher through the access opening Correct answer.
  3. Leave the engine running to burn off the fuel
  4. Open the engine hatch fully to see the fire

Explanation

Shutting off the engine and fuel supply removes the source, and discharging the extinguisher through the access opening smothers the fire without feeding it air. Opening the hatch fully supplies oxygen and can cause the fire to flare. Water should not be used on a fuel fire.

Question 45Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

What is the purpose of a 'float plan' left with a responsible person ashore?

  1. It replaces the need to carry a radio
  2. It lists the vessel's maintenance schedule
  3. It records the vessel's insurance details
  4. It tells them where you are going and when you expect to return so they can raise the alarm Correct answer.

Explanation

A float plan gives a shore contact the route, destination and expected return time so they can alert authorities if you are overdue. It does not replace communications equipment or insurance records. It is a simple but effective safety measure.

Question 46Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper is crossing a busy channel and sees a large vessel constrained by its draught displaying the appropriate signals. What is the best course of action?

  1. Sound one short blast and proceed
  2. Hold course and speed and expect the large vessel to give way
  3. Cross ahead as quickly as possible
  4. Keep well clear and avoid crossing ahead of the vessel Correct answer.

Explanation

A vessel constrained by its draught cannot easily alter course or stop, so small craft should keep well clear and avoid crossing ahead. Relying on the large vessel to give way is unsafe. Sound signals do not create a right of way.

Question 47Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

You are planning a passage across a tidal harbour and the chart shows a drying height. What does a drying height indicate?

  1. The speed of the tidal stream
  2. The distance from the harbour entrance
  3. The height above chart datum to which a feature dries at low water Correct answer.
  4. The depth of water at high water springs

Explanation

A drying height shows how far a feature such as a sandbank rises above chart datum, so it is uncovered at low water. It is used with tide tables to work out whether there is enough water to pass. Depths, distances and stream speeds are shown differently.

Question 48Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper is caught out by a sudden squall in an open boat. Which combination of actions best reflects good practice?

  1. Anchor immediately in deep water regardless of depth
  2. Turn broadside to the wind to present a smaller profile
  3. Increase speed to outrun the squall and head downwind
  4. Reduce speed, head into the wind and sea, ensure everyone is wearing a lifejacket, and secure loose gear Correct answer.

Explanation

Reducing speed and heading into the wind and sea keeps the boat under control and reduces the chance of swamping. Lifejackets and secured gear protect the crew and keep the boat stable. Running downwind or lying broadside exposes the boat to beam seas and capsize risk.

Question 49Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A vessel is showing a cone point downwards in daylight. What does this signal indicate?

  1. The vessel is at anchor
  2. The vessel is under sail and also using its engine Correct answer.
  3. The vessel is not under command
  4. The vessel is aground

Explanation

A cone with the point down indicates a vessel proceeding under sail that is also being propelled by machinery. This is sometimes called motorsailing. A vessel at anchor, not under command or aground uses different shapes or lights.

Question 50Beginning Boating / Foundation Level knowledge

A skipper is navigating a narrow channel at night and sees a vessel showing a red light and a white light ahead. What is the most likely explanation?

  1. A sailing vessel underway with no sidelights
  2. A power-driven vessel approaching from the starboard side, showing its port sidelight and masthead light Correct answer.
  3. A vessel at anchor showing an anchor light only
  4. A vessel aground showing two red lights

Explanation

A red light is the port sidelight, and a white light ahead is likely a masthead light, indicating a power-driven vessel crossing from starboard. The skipper should keep clear. An anchored vessel shows an all-round white light, and a vessel aground shows two red lights.