The following discussion topics cover boat systems knowledge and some basic chart reading skills.

The second part deals with skills requirement #15, emergency docking.


  • PFDs are required when at BSC?
  • PFD rules for children under 13 in MD law
  • If another vessel is overtaking you and honks the horn once, what does that mean?
  • Occulting light means what?
  • What is the significance of a Morse Code A ( . _ one short one long) light?
  • What is a RACON buoy?
  • Fl G 6s 38ft 5M "7" : What does all this mean?


Do a pop quiz on these items:


  • How can you tell the charge level of the 12v marine batteries?
  • Locate the alternator and explain its purpose (hint: Follow the belt and wires)
  • Locate the raw water sea pump (hint: Follow the hoses)
  • Locate the strainer and explain its purpose
  • Locate the dip stick and explain its purpose and when this is performed
  • Locate the header tank for the coolant
  • Locate valve cover for the oil fill
  • Locate fuel filters (primary and engine/secondary)
  • Locate starter (hint: Thick battery cables)
  • Locate the air intake silencer
  • Locate the exhaust mixing elbow
  • Explain BSC battery switch operation