RYA Yachtmaster Pilotage & Harbour Entry 3

Question 1

Which factor is LEAST relevant when selecting a safe anchorage?

Accepted Answer

The vessel's flag state

Answer

Quality of the holding ground

Answer

Available swinging room

Answer

Depth of water and range of tide

Question 2

In moderate conditions, what is the recommended scope of chain when anchoring?

Accepted Answer

Five to seven times the depth at high water

Answer

Equal to the depth of water at low tide

Answer

Three times the depth at high water

Answer

Ten times the charted depth

Question 3

Why should the position of a dropped anchor always be marked on the chart?

Accepted Answer

To ensure the anchor and chain are not laid over submarine cables or seabed hazards

Answer

To calculate fuel consumption during the anchorage

Answer

Because the harbour master requires a record of all anchored positions

Answer

So that other vessels can identify the anchor's exact location

Question 4

What is a 'tidal gate' in the context of harbour entry and passage planning?

Accepted Answer

A location that can only be navigated safely at certain states of the tide

Answer

A lock gate that opens only at high water

Answer

The maximum speed limit applicable in a tidal harbour approach

Answer

A flood gate that closes to prevent tidal surge entering a marina

Question 5

Which statement best describes 'blind pilotage'?

Accepted Answer

Navigating a planned route in restricted visibility using pre-calculated bearings, distances, and times run

Answer

Piloting a vessel using GPS alone with the chartplotter display switched off

Answer

Allowing a crew member to steer without looking at the compass

Answer

Entering an unfamiliar harbour without consulting a pilot book

Question 6

During an approach, the skipper notices the vessel is being set towards a rock by the tidal stream. The most appropriate immediate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Alter course to counteract the tidal set and increase speed if needed to clear the hazard

Answer

Increase engine speed and maintain the original course

Answer

Anchor immediately and wait for slack water to pass the hazard

Answer

Broadcast a Securité message and request assistance

Question 7

When approaching a marina berth in a significant cross-wind, the safest technique is to:

Accepted Answer

Approach slowly, use brief engine bursts for control, and use springs to pivot into the berth

Answer

Approach at high speed to punch through the wind and reach the berth quickly

Answer

Wait offshore until wind speed drops below 10 knots before attempting entry

Answer

Request a tow from another vessel already moored in the marina