SUNBEAM is motoring slowly up a creek when she suddenly slows and stops — she has run gently aground on mud. What is the first thing to do?

A. Immediately call Mayday before checking anything else

B. Keep the engine at full power and try to drive straight off immediately

C. Put the engine into neutral straight away so the propeller is not churning into the mud or sand, then check if anyone is hurt and whether the boat feels level or is leaning over

D. Ignore it completely and carry on as if nothing has happened

A. On a falling tide, the water will keep getting shallower — if nothing is done, the boat could be left high and dry, and on a slope she might tip over onto her side. Acting quickly, before more water disappears, gives the best chance of getting off easily

B. Only the tide at the original harbour matters, not the tide where the boat is now

C. A falling tide is good news because the boat will float free on its own as the tide drops

D. The tide state makes no difference to a boat that is already aground

A. Try gently going astern (reverse) first; move crew weight to one side or to the back of the boat to lift the front and reduce how deep she is sitting; if there is wind and sail available, sails can sometimes heel the boat enough to reduce the depth needed

B. Have everyone jump up and down on the deck at the same time

C. Repeatedly gun the engine forwards and backwards as hard as possible

D. Wait completely still and do nothing until the next high tide, even though there is still time to try