Question 1

NTSB determined the probable cause of the Algoma Verity's double grounding on the Delaware River was:

Accepted Answer

The pilot maneuvering the vessel outside the channel into shallow water, likely due to expectation bias about how much the current and the ship's handling characteristics would affect its movement NTSB's finding was explicit: probable cause was the pilot maneuvering outside the channel into shallow water, likely due to expectation bias that the current and the vessel's maneuvering characteristics would have more impact on the ship's movement than they actually did.

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.