Question 20

The Correct Answer is A. A sea anchor is a device deployed from the bow of a survival craft (like a lifeboat or liferaft) into the water. Its primary function is to create significant drag (resistance) against the water movement, thereby **reducing the speed at which the survival craft drifts** due to wind and current. This reduced drift rate conserves energy, helps keep the craft pointed into the wind/waves, and generally stabilizes the craft's position. Here is why the other options are incorrect: * **B) keep the survival craft from turning over:** While a sea anchor helps stabilize the craft and keeps the bow pointed into the waves, which generally makes turning over less likely, its primary and guaranteed function is drag reduction (A). Extreme wave action can still cause capsizing, and survival crafts rely more heavily on their inherent stability (low center of gravity, inflated tubes, ballast bags, and stability arches) than the sea anchor alone to prevent turning over. * **C) aid in recovering the survival craft:** A sea anchor does not actively aid in recovery. In fact, a vessel attempting to recover the survival craft would typically haul in or cut away the sea anchor first, as the high drag it creates would make towing or hoisting difficult. * **D) increase your visibility:** A sea anchor operates underwater and has no features designed to increase visibility (like reflective tape, lights, or high-contrast colors). Visibility is increased by measures such as radar reflectors, signaling devices, and high-visibility canopies.