USCG Exam PracticeSingle-screw maneuvering and prop walk
The compound maneuver on a single-screw vessel substitutes for the twin-screw twist. Which description correctly identifies the technique?
- ✓ Alternating short bursts ahead with the rudder over and bursts astern, using discharge current and side force in sequence to walk the bow around with little headwayCorrect
- B. Using the rudder amidships with alternating ahead and astern bursts of equal duration to cancel headway while rotating
- C. Holding full rudder and applying sustained astern power until the vessel rotates about its pivot point
- D. Applying a sustained ahead burst with full rudder to generate maximum discharge current, then coasting astern to use side force
Why A is correct
USCG Boat Crew Seamanship Manual §10-E describes the compound maneuver as alternating short bursts ahead against the rudder with bursts astern, which walks the boat around with little headway. Ahead, the discharge current directed by the rudder moves the stern strongly; astern, the rudder is weak and side force dominates.