Which sequence correctly describes how to prepare for a backwater maneuver?

• A. The oars are put horizontal to the water with the blades feathered, and you start rowing astern.
• B. The oars are moved to backwater and begin rowing astern.
• C. The oars are laid across the deck and secured.
• D. The oars are moved forward and held until signals.

Answer: (A)

In this maneuver, you want the oars ready for reverse before you start moving. That means placing the oars horizontally in the water with the blades feathered—that is, angled to slice through the water with minimal drag. With the blades in this backwater-ready, feathered position, you then begin rowing astern. This sequence ensures you have control and don’t fight against water resistance as you reverse.

Laying the oars across the deck and securing them is simply stowing gear, not preparing for a backwater. Moving forward and waiting for signals isn’t how this maneuver is executed, since you need to be set for backward propulsion.