USCG Exam PracticeSingle-screw maneuvering and prop walk
The compound maneuver used on a single-screw vessel to turn in a confined space with minimal headway involves:
- ✓ Alternating short bursts ahead with the rudder over against short bursts astern, using propeller side force on the astern burstsCorrect
- B. Using short bursts astern only, relying on propeller side force to walk the bow around the pivot point
- C. Holding full rudder over and applying sustained ahead power to pivot about the stern
- D. Applying sustained astern power with the rudder amidships, then shifting the rudder hard over once sternway is established
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. Ahead, the discharge current directed by the rudder moves the stern strongly; astern, the rudder is weak but propeller side force dominates. This combination walks the boat around with little headway, substituting for a twin-screw twist.