356. When backing a motor propelled lifeboat (right-hand propeller) with the rudder amidships, the stern will back __________.

A right-hand propeller backing produces transverse thrust, causing the stern to move to port when the rudder is amidships. This effect, known as propeller walk, occurs because the spinning propeller pushes water sideways. With the rudder amidships, this effect is uninhibited, resulting in the stern moving to port.