RESOLUTE reaches harbour safely. What changes should the skipper make to the vessel's heavy weather procedure before the next passage?

A. The incident was caused by unusual weather — no procedure changes are needed

B. Add to passage procedures: 1) Weather update check every 2 hours on passage (logged); 2) All hatches and dorades closed before departure if forecast above F4; 3) All crew clipped on before forecast exceeds F5; 4) Mainsheet to be led to helm position so it is always releasable; 5) Brief pre-departure scenario: "If we are knocked down, the immediate action is..."; 6) Safety equipment including forestay failure procedure on the vessel briefing card

C. Buy a larger boat — larger vessels are not vulnerable to knockdowns

D. File an MAIB report only if the vessel is over 13m — below this size reports are voluntary and not required

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