Seamanship Flashcards

When approaching a harbour entrance in heavy weather, what is the primary consideration?

Answer: Timing the approach to avoid breaking waves on a bar, assessing tidal conditions, and having a clear plan for berthing

In heavy weather, harbour approaches can be the most dangerous part of a passage. Key considerations include timing entry for sufficient water over any bar, avoiding breaking seas, and having a clear berthing plan.

What is the purpose of 'heaving to' in a sailing yacht?

Answer: To bring the vessel to a near-stop by backing the jib and lashing the helm to leeward, allowing the crew to rest or manage an emergency

Heaving to balances the forces of a backed headsail, a reefed mainsail, and lashed-down helm so the boat makes minimal headway, drifting slowly to leeward. It provides stability for crew rest, meal preparation, or emergencies.

What is the correct procedure for rigging a 'drogue' or 'sea anchor' in heavy weather?

Answer: Deploy it from the stern (drogue) to slow the vessel and maintain a controlled speed when running in large following seas, or from the bow (sea anchor) to hold the bow into the wind

A drogue is deployed from the stern to slow the boat when running before heavy seas, preventing surfing and broaching. A sea anchor is deployed from the bow to hold the vessel head-to-wind, reducing drift.

When anchoring in a tidal anchorage offshore, what factors determine the minimum length of anchor cable to use?

Answer: Depth of water at high tide, tidal range, expected weather conditions, and the type of seabed — typically a minimum scope of 4:1 for chain

Anchor cable length (scope) depends on maximum depth (including tidal range), weather conditions, and seabed type. Minimum scope for all-chain rode is typically 4:1 in settled conditions, increasing to 6:1 or more in stronger conditions.

What is the purpose of 'reefing' a mainsail and when should it be done?

Answer: To reduce the sail area when wind strength increases, maintaining control and reducing heel — ideally done early, before conditions become difficult

Reefing reduces mainsail area to manage increasing wind strength. The golden rule is 'reef early' — if you're thinking about reefing, you should already be doing it. It's much harder to reef in a crisis.

What is the correct technique for picking up a mooring buoy under power in a strong cross-wind?

Answer: Approach slowly from downwind, allowing the wind to slow the vessel, and have a crew member ready with a boat hook at the bow

In a cross-wind, approach slowly from downwind so the wind helps slow the vessel. Judge the drift carefully, aim slightly upwind, and have crew ready with a boat hook. Communication between helm and foredeck is essential.