Question 1

Continuing from a falling barometer scenario: this time the wind has been backing (shifting anti-clockwise) steadily over several hours, in the Northern Hemisphere. What does this indicate and what is the correct evasive action?

Accepted Answer

You are in the less dangerous (navigable) semicircle — bring the wind on the starboard quarter, hold course and make as much way as possible, heaving to stern to the sea only if necessary A wind shifting to the left (backing) in the Northern Hemisphere indicates the less dangerous (navigable) semicircle. The correct action is the mirror image of the dangerous-semicircle case: bring the wind on the starboard quarter, hold course, and make as much way as possible — heaving to stern to the sea only if sea room doesn't permit maintaining way. Confusing veering with backing reverses the entire recommended manoeuvre, which is exactly why examiners probe this pairing rather than just one half of it.

Question 2

You're preparing a passage plan for a coastal leg in a yacht drawing 3.2m. At one point the chart shows a least depth of 3.8m at chart datum. What MUST you check before finalising this leg?

Accepted Answer

The tidal height at the time of transit to confirm sufficient under-keel clearance Charted depths are referenced to chart datum (often LAT), so you must add the predicted tidal height for your transit time to get the actual depth, then compare to your draft plus a safety margin to confirm UKC.

Question 3

During your watch the ECDIS gives a "safety contour crossing" alarm. What is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

Assess the situation against the planned route and charted depths, take action to maintain safe water, and inform the Master if there is any doubt A safety contour alarm indicates the vessel may be approaching water shallower than the set safety contour. It must be investigated against the route and charted information, with avoiding action taken and the Master informed as appropriate — never simply silenced.