Partway through the tow, the wind picks up and the sea gets choppier than expected. What should the skipper consider?

A. Always continue the original plan exactly as started, regardless of how conditions change

B. Cut the tow line immediately and abandon the other boat with no further help offered

C. Speed up significantly to finish the tow faster despite the worsening conditions

D. Reassess whether continuing the tow is still the safest option — if conditions are now making the tow difficult or risky for either boat, it may be safer to call the Coastguard or a lifeboat (who have purpose-built towing equipment and experience) rather than push on regardless

A. Approach at full speed directly alongside the drifting boat

B. Assume they are just waving in a friendly way and carry on past without checking

C. Call the Coastguard immediately without first checking what the actual problem is

D. Sail or motor closer carefully to assess the situation — check if anyone is hurt, whether the boat is taking on water, and what kind of help they actually need, before deciding what to do next

A. Automatically agree to tow them without considering whether it is realistic or safe to do so

B. Refuse to help at all and leave immediately since no one is in immediate danger

C. Tow them at full sailing speed without checking whether the tow line and fittings can cope

D. Whether SUNBEAM is actually able to help safely — check the size and weight of the other boat compared to SUNBEAM, the sea conditions, and whether towing is realistic, or whether it would be better to simply stand by and call for proper assistance instead