In storm conditions, with the wind and waves from the starboard bow of the DEEP DRILLER in 600 feet water depth, the offset is 8%. Completely slacking mooring lines 7 and 8 reduces the offset to __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — 5.0%

Mooring line tensioning on floating drilling units like the DEEP DRILLER directly affects platform offset under environmental loads. Completely slacking lee-side mooring lines 7 and 8 allows the vessel to shift, reducing the offset from 8% down to 5.0%.