Which term means to move backward or behind the boat?

Which term means to move backward or behind the boat?

• A. Ahead
• B. Abeam
• C. Astern
• D. Abaft

Answer: (C)

Moving backward or toward the rear of a vessel is described by the term astern. Ahead means forward toward the bow. Abeam means at a right angle to the vessel’s centerline, i.e., to the side. Abaft means behind a point on the vessel, toward the stern, but it’s a positional term rather than a motion instruction. Astern directly denotes reverse movement or being toward the stern, which is why it’s the best choice.

Moving backward or toward the rear of a vessel is described by the term astern. Ahead means forward toward the bow. Abeam means at a right angle to the vessel’s centerline, i.e., to the side. Abaft means behind a point on the vessel, toward the stern, but it’s a positional term rather than a motion instruction. Astern directly denotes reverse movement or being toward the stern, which is why it’s the best choice.