A breeches buoy is being rigged from the shore to a stranded vessel. The initial shot line passed to the vessel is normally made fast to a __________.

Correct Answer: Option D — tail-block and whip which may be used to pass a hawser to the vessel

The shot line is a lightweight messenger used to haul heavier gear. By attaching it to the tail-block and whip, the vessel can pull the heavier hawser across. This sequential rigging process ensures the breeches buoy system is established safely without attempting to haul the entire heavy hawser initially.