Question 1

The bridge experiences a sudden loss of steering control from the primary mode. What should the OOW's immediate priority be, per current bridge back-up mode guidance?

Accepted Answer

Immediately switch to a known, drilled back-up steering mode while reducing speed and informing the Master, rather than attempting to troubleshoot the primary system under way Gard's guidance on loss of bridge control stresses that back-up steering modes must be known and drilled in advance — the moment of an actual failure is not the time to be learning the changeover procedure. Speed reduction and prompt Master notification buy time and reduce consequence while the back-up mode is engaged.

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.