Coast Guard Exams
Home/Questions/Deck Safety/Question 1383
Question 1383Deck Safety70% to pass

The steering oar in a lifeboat is usually referred to as the _______________.

AI Explanation
The correct answer is B) sweep oar. The steering oar in a lifeboat is typically referred to as the "sweep oar" because it is used to sweep the lifeboat from side to side to steer and control the boat's direction. The sweep oar is a long, heavy oar that is mounted at the stern (back) of the lifeboat and operated by the coxswain or helmsman. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) The "stroke oar" refers to the oar used to set the pace and rhythm for the other rowers, not the steering oar. C) A "becket oar" is a term not typically used for the steering oar. D) A "bumpkin oar" is a type of davit used to hoist and lower the lifeboat, not the steering oar itself.

Ready to test your knowledge?