USCG Exam PracticeAB watchkeeping and helm commands
The conning officer orders 'shift your rudder' when the vessel has left full rudder applied. What action must the helmsman take?
- A. Move the rudder to amidships and await the next order.
- B. Apply right full rudder, since 'shift' always means shift to starboard.
- ✓ Apply the same number of degrees of rudder on the opposite side.Correct
- D. Ease the rudder to standard and report when steady.
Why C is correct
NAVEDTRA 14067 §2-1 defines 'shift your rudder' as putting the rudder over the same number of degrees on the opposite side. With left full rudder applied, the helmsman shifts to right full rudder — not to amidships, and not to a reduced angle.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14067 §2-1