You are underway on course 172°T at 18.5 knots. The current is 078°T at 2.8 knots. What is the speed being made good?

Correct Answer: Option A — 18.5 knots

The Speed Made Good is the resultant of the ship's velocity and the current. With a course of 172°T and current of 078°T, the current acts nearly perpendicular to the track. Vector resolution shows the speed remains 18.5 knots, as the current provides negligible longitudinal gain or loss.