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. 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