Which statement concerning the handling characteristics of a fully loaded vessel as compared with those of a light vessel is FALSE?

Correct Answer: Option B — A light vessel loses more rudder effect in shallow water.

A light vessel has a higher center of gravity and increased windage, but it does not lose more rudder effect in shallow water compared to a loaded vessel. In fact, deep-draft vessels experience more significant squat and interaction effects, which severely degrade steering performance in shallow channels.