In storm conditions, with the wind and waves from the port bow of the DEEP DRILLER in 600 feet water depth, the offset is 9%. Completely slacking mooring lines 5 and 6 reduces the offset to __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — 6.5%

Completely slacking specific mooring lines on semi-submersible drilling units alters the catenary and tension distribution, directly reducing lateral offset percentages under extreme environmental loading as calculated in the unit's approved stability and operations manual.