Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Boater Safety Practice Exam

What could happen if all of the anchor line is dropped overboard?

1. The vessel will become more stable

2. The vessel may not be secured properly

3. The vessel will drag the anchor

4. The vessel will capsize

The correct answer is: The vessel may not be secured properly

Dropping all of the anchor line overboard can lead to the vessel not being secured properly. When an anchor is deployed, the goal is to ensure that enough line is let out to allow the anchor to set firmly on the seabed while still maintaining enough tension to hold the vessel in place. If all the anchor line is released, there is a risk that the anchor could not properly grip the bottom or could become disengaged entirely, resulting in the vessel not being secured. This situation may cause the vessel to drift with currents or winds, which could pose significant safety risks. In contrast, while scenarios like dragging the anchor or capsizing might occur in extreme cases, they tend to stem from specific conditions or errors in judgment regarding the length and type of anchor line used rather than the direct outcome of releasing all the line. As such, the primary concern in this situation is the lack of proper anchoring, making the vessel vulnerable to drifting.