A yacht skipper is planning a coastal passage to France. What insurance considerations apply?

A. Check the policy area covers French waters; confirm third-party liability (minimum recommended €2-3M for European waters); carry proof of insurance on board; confirm the policy covers the crew members present; check whether the policy requires the skipper to hold a specific qualification for the intended passage

B. Insurance is the owner's concern — the skipper has no legal or practical responsibility

C. Marine insurance is voluntary — no legal requirement exists for leisure vessels in UK or EU waters

D. UK insurance automatically covers all EU and EEA waters — no check required

A. Heaving to is only possible in winds above Force 5 — light winds do not allow the technique

B. Heaving to: backed foresail + sheeted main + lashed helm to leeward creates a nearly stationary vessel making minimal leeway. Used for: crew rest, eating hot food, waiting for a tidal gate, reefing in heavy weather, attending to a non-urgent emergency on board

C. Heaving to means stopping the engine and drifting — only used on motor vessels

D. Heaving to requires full sail — reducing sail while hove to defeats the purpose

A. Immediately motor forward at full power to push over the obstruction

B. Drop all sails and anchor in position — wait for the next high water

C. Note the time and check the tide table (is it rising or falling?); if rising — may float off shortly, hold position. If falling — assess: heel to reduce draught (all crew to one side); deploy kedge anchor using the dinghy to deep water; motor off in reverse if possible without damaging propeller; protect against further keeling with fenders/lines to a second anchor

D. Call the Coastguard for immediate assistance — grounding is always an emergency