Practice Tests | Basic Cruising Skills for Sailing Keelboats

Based on the provided text, which appears to outline the performance objectives for a boating or maritime certification course (likely similar to the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron's Se seamanship level), here is a summary of what a candidate must be able to do:

1. Start auxiliary engine on the vessel and depart from the dock following safety practices.

2. Stop a vessel under power one half boat length away from a buoy using reverse, ensuring the vessel comes to a full stop while keeping a straight course.

3. Manoeuvre alongside a dock, both portside-to and starboardside-to, without the stern passing a given mark during the manoeuvre.

4. Follow the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) Rules 5 through 18 when operating under power or under sail.

5. Set an anchor in water more than three meters deep without dragging when tested under engine power at half-throttle astern.

6. Raise the anchor with the boat ready and get underway.

7. Handle sails under various wind conditions, including beating, reaching, running; tacking and gybing; heading up, bearing away, luffing, and heaving to.

8. Use specific commands related to sail handling and crew coordination, such as "Head Up," "Bear Away," "Ease Sheets," "Harden Sheets," "Ready About," "Ready to Gybe," and "Gybe-Ho."

9. Manage the sail plan, including reefing and shaking out reefs, adjusting sheet tensions for different points of sail and conditions, and maintaining vessel control.

10. Respond to a Crew Overboard (COB) situation by following protocols like sounding the alarm, deploying markers, appointing a lookout, and demonstrating at least two methods for recovering a person in the water, whether assisted or unassisted.

11. Bring the vessel into irons, start the engine, adjust sails as necessary, and prepare for a COB recovery, ensuring control of all lines and the safety of the crew.

12. Lower sails while under power or at anchor/mooring.

13. Secure the vessel to a dock using appropriate lines and set out fenders correctly to prevent damage.

14. Tie various knots, bends, and hitches efficiently.

The candidate's ability to operate the vessel in daytime in moderate conditions as both skipper and crew will be evaluated during practical sessions. Theory knowledge is assessed through a closed-book written exam, where a mark of 70% or above is required for certification.

This summary covers a wide range of skills and knowledge necessary for safe and proficient vessel operation under power and under sail, as well as emergency situations at sea. The course is designed to ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the responsibilities of boating in various conditions.