Maritime QuestionsWarship Encounter

You are now clear of the warship but shaken. Should you report the incident to HM Coastguard and what should you report?

A. No — military incidents should not be reported to the Coastguard
B. Yes — transmit a Sécurité or call the Coastguard on Ch 16 to report: your position, the warship's approximate course and speed, the signals fired, and any remaining hazard to other vessels. This is both a navigational duty and protects other yachts in the area
C. Report only to the Royal Navy — the Coastguard has no jurisdiction over warships
D. Wait until you reach port and file a written report — radio reports are not appropriate for this type of incident
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You are sailing in patchy fog, 20nm south of the Isle of Wight. A large warship suddenly appears through the fog approximately 500 metres away on a crossing course. You are on autopilot under engine and sail. What should you have already been doing that you may not be?
A. Sounding fog signals (one prolonged blast every 2 min under engine), maintaining a proper radar/lookout, monitoring Ch 16, and reducing speed to minimum steerage way — all required in or near restricted visibility by COLREGs Rule 19
B. Nothing — fog signals are only required at anchor, not underway
C. Maintaining speed and course — you have right of way as a sailing vessel
D. Displaying a radar reflector is sufficient — no sound signals needed for yachts under 20m
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The warship is now 400m away. You can see it is a large grey frigate with no visible national flag markings yet. It appears to be making 15 knots. What do you do in the next 30 seconds?
A. Go below and call the Coastguard first before attempting any manoeuvre
B. Identify the vessel on AIS if fitted; check radar; try calling on Ch 16 immediately; assess collision risk by checking if the bearing is changing; prepare to take avoiding action under Rule 19
C. Hold course — you have right of way and the warship must give way
D. Tack immediately and sail away at maximum speed — military vessels always have right of way
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