Fellow sailors- I have a confession. I was a little… WORRIED today. Had two tests- knot tying for AB and a math proficiency exam for PMI.
I got 100% on the knots and splicing- though I’ll confess there were a couple of knots I could have done better…
The math test… well…
I didn’t do THAT bad- but need to study my trigonometry. Today was the first time I’ve used a scientific calculator. Also first time doing trig calculations sine, cosine, tangent-etc. It’s like anything else- proficiency comes from (proper) practice- and I need to do a little more.
If you’re considering a career as a mate or engineer- study up on math before you get into school- it will help.
So… AB class- day 3!
As usual- lots info was presented. PMI does a good job of mixing new info with stuff you’ve already gone over. This keeps everything fresh in your mind.
They also do a lot exams- which aren’t graded. Knowing you’ll have to answer your questions in front of the class is a good motivator though- so we all study for them:) I’ve done pretty well on these- except when I fail to fully read the questions. USCG likes to ask tricky questions- so read the whole question- and your answer. If you have time- double check.
Today we had a deck general exam- questions included-
*Labeling a diagram of mooring lines…
*The different types of block and tackle- their names, mechanical advantage, etc…
*Vessel construction terms…
And more.
Then we studied a number of things-
*Ground tackle- anchors, chain, etc. Learned the proper names for anchor components, the colors for different shots of chain, using “scope” to determine the correct amount of chain to pay out… Also info on mooring the windlass/capstan/winch components, the chain locker… which reminds me-
Our instructor told us a story about how danzante made her fake out anchor chain coming into the chain locker. I haven’t yet had the “opportunity” to do this-yet.
Also discussed-
Vessel handling characteristics for single and twin screw vessels, the effects of squat, cushion and suction… We got a mini lecture on the “Houston Chicken” which demonstrates these- and was universally enjoyed:) Gotta look up the video… Then we were on to search and rescue maneuvering-Williamson Turn, Anderson Turn, plus several others- and their advantages/disadvantages.
Also went over OS and AB duties- both in general- and especially on the bridge. We had done some of this before- but a good refresher. We went over helm commands again- and I made a few distinctions/learned a few new things.
Next up- compass problems- determining and correcting compass error- deviation/variation- and had a practical exam on this. Who would have guessed that discussing dead men, virgins, elections, and whiskey could help you become an officer?
That was the end of the day for most. If you haven’t taken these courses- it seems like a LOT of info for one day- and it is. The amazing thing is- I never post ALL of that we go over. There are always side discussions, people popping in to say hi, sea stories and what not… If you focus, take good notes, and do your studying- it’s not that bad. Then again- I’m not in celestial yet.
I’ve had several people ask me about the knots part. Our instructor gave us a Coast Guard handout explaining what you have to know.
There are 15 or 16 knots- of which the instructor picks 10- and you must get 7. The knots are below (I put a “*” next to the ones I got)
Clove hitch
Rolling hitch
Bowline*
Bowline on a bight*
French Bowline*
Figure 8 Knot*
Sheet Bend/Becket Bend*
Barrel Hitch
Stopper Hitch
Cat’s Paw*
Round Turn and 2 Half Hitches*
Carrick Bend*
Timber Hitch
Square Knot*
Fisherman’s Bend*
- I might be for getting one…
Note- the line used was short- made tying “different” You might want to practice…
Also- you have to do a splice in 3 strand line- either an eye splice- or short splice- within 15 minutes. I did an eye splice…
Then- after sweating through the math test- I was free to enjoy a warm Spring day in Seattle. It’s a beautiful city- come visit us if you have the chance. Anthony