When lowering lifeboats as the vessel is pitching in heavy seas, a good practice is to rig frapping lines __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — fore and aft with a lead of about 45° to the boat

Rigging frapping lines fore and aft with a lead of approximately 45 degrees provides the necessary lateral stability to prevent the lifeboat from swinging excessively against the ship's side during heavy pitching. This configuration effectively dampens motion, ensuring a safer embarkation and lowering process in adverse sea conditions.