When making way in heavy seas you notice that your vessel's screw is being lifted clear of the water and racing. One way to correct this would be to __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — decrease speed

When the propeller lifts out of the water, it loses its load, causing the engine to overspeed or 'race.' Decreasing speed reduces the vessel's forward motion and the severity of pitching, keeping the propeller submerged longer and preventing mechanical damage to the propulsion system from sudden load fluctuations.