Looking back, the skipper had not checked the chart closely enough before motoring into the unfamiliar creek. What is the main lesson?

A. Groundings are completely random and cannot be avoided by checking anything in advance

B. Charts are only useful for long offshore passages, not for short trips into local creeks

C. Always check the chart and the tide times carefully before entering any unfamiliar or shallow area, especially on a falling tide — a few minutes of checking beforehand can prevent hours of being stuck waiting for the tide

D. The lesson is to never explore anywhere unfamiliar again, even in good conditions

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