A large vessel is equipped with a controllable pitch propeller. Which statement is TRUE?

Correct Answer: Option C — When dead in the water, it is often difficult to find the neutral position and slight headway or sternway may result.

Controllable pitch propellers maintain constant shaft RPM while varying blade pitch. When the bridge control is set to neutral, the blades may not be perfectly flat, resulting in residual thrust. This makes it difficult to maintain a perfectly stationary position, often causing slight, unintended headway or sternway.