Question 1

In one of the article's examples a pilot mistook the light of one buoy for another at night and altered course toward a shoal. Which two factors did the article link to the grounding?

Accepted Answer

The pilot did not verify the mark against GPS or the chart, and the bridge team did not question him The article says the pilot confirmed the mark neither with GPS nor the chart, and that the crew did not challenge him. This is the combination it highlights across the data: an unchecked assumption plus a bridge team that did not intervene.

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.