You are making mooring lines fast to bitts, stern to, as in some Mediterranean ports. A swell is liable to make the vessel surge. How should you tie up?

Correct Answer: Option D — Use manila or synthetic fiber hawsers only.

Manila or synthetic fiber hawsers provide the necessary elasticity to absorb the energy of a vessel surging in a swell. Using rigid wires would risk parting the lines or causing structural damage to the bitts and deck fittings due to the lack of stretch during heavy motion.