After centering, the boat's head should be swung _____º to be sure the source is ahead, not aft.

After centering, the boat's head should be swung _____º to be sure the source is ahead, not aft.

• A. 15
• B. 30
• C. 45
• D. 60

Answer: (B)

To know where the source is, you first center your aiming point on the source, then move the bow a bit to see how the bearing to the source behaves. Swinging the head about thirty degrees gives a clear, practical test: if the source stays in front of the bow as you turn, you can confirm it’s ahead. If the source were behind, the bearing would shift toward the stern as you swing, showing it isn’t ahead. A smaller swing might not reveal the true position and a much larger swing can mix up what’s in front versus behind. Using roughly thirty degrees provides enough separation to make a confident judgment while keeping maneuvering simple.

To know where the source is, you first center your aiming point on the source, then move the bow a bit to see how the bearing to the source behaves. Swinging the head about thirty degrees gives a clear, practical test: if the source stays in front of the bow as you turn, you can confirm it’s ahead. If the source were behind, the bearing would shift toward the stern as you swing, showing it isn’t ahead. A smaller swing might not reveal the true position and a much larger swing can mix up what’s in front versus behind. Using roughly thirty degrees provides enough separation to make a confident judgment while keeping maneuvering simple.