Question 1

In BSafe Case Study 22, both the classification society's Condition of Class and the departing pilot instructed the master to keep the engine on standby at anchor. What did the master do shortly after the pilot disembarked?

Accepted Answer

Ordered the engine stopped and handed the anchor watch to the second officer with no specific weather-monitoring instruction Despite both the Condition of Class (issued because the ship had lost its port anchor) and the pilot's direct advice, the master ordered the engine stopped shortly after the pilot left and handed over the watch without specific instruction to monitor the deteriorating weather.

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.