RESOLUTE is 12nm from harbour in Force 7. Approach is from the south-west — the harbour entrance has a bar drying to 0.7m. It is 3 hours before HW. What additional factor must be considered before entering?

A. With 3 hours to HW the bar will be fully covered — proceed directly to the harbour

B. The tidal height calculation is the only consideration — wave height does not affect bar crossings

C. The bar drying to 0.7m in Force 7 with a west swell creates breaking seas even at high water. Check: tidal height at entry time (subtract 0.7m for bar, calculate MHWS or height above datum required); but more critically — Force 7 swell from the west onto a shallow bar creates dangerous breaking waves regardless of tidal height. Consider an alternative port or heave-to offshore until conditions ease

D. All harbour bars are safe to cross in any conditions — they are charted as access channels

A. Radio the Coastguard — they need to know immediately before the capsize occurs

B. Apply full helm to bear away downwind — this immediately levels the boat

C. Release the mainsheet immediately — reducing sail power is the priority to prevent full knockdown. A free mainsheet allows the main to depowering (luff). Simultaneously steer to head up into wind if possible. Every second of full sail pressure at 70° heel risks the mast hitting the water

D. Hold course and speed — the squall will pass in seconds and the yacht will right herself without action

A. All crew move to the windward side — their weight will right the vessel faster

B. Deploy the liferaft immediately — a knockdown flat is a capsize and the vessel must be abandoned

C. Account for all crew — confirm everyone is either aboard or on a safety line. Then: ease all sheets completely so sails cannot fill when she rights. The boat will usually self-right from 90° when sails are freed. Do not start the engine until the righting is confirmed and no lines are near the prop

D. Start the engine and motor out of the heel — thrust will right the vessel