Despite trying, SUNBEAM is firmly stuck and the water is continuing to drop. What should the skipper now plan for?

A. Keep trying the same failed actions repeatedly without changing the plan

B. Accept that the boat will dry out where she is, and prepare for this safely — check whether she will sit upright or lean over, and if she might lean, get a long pole, oar, or boat hook ready to prop against the hull on the downhill side to stop her tipping too far

C. Assume nothing further needs to be done since the boat cannot sink in shallow mud

D. Everyone should get off the boat and stand in the mud to push

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