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

D. 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

A. 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

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

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

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. 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

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

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