If you suspect hull damage after a hard impact with rocks or debris, what should you do before continuing?

• A. Immediately retreat to shore
• B. Continue at a slower speed
• C. Report the incident to authorities
• D. Inspect for leaks before continuing

Answer: (D)

When a hard impact with rocks or debris is suspected, the priority is to verify the hull’s watertight integrity before moving on. A hull can be cracked or punctured below the waterline even if the damage isn’t obvious from above, and water entering the bilge or compartments can quickly compromise buoyancy and stability. So you inspect for leaks to determine if the vessel is still safely afloat.

Check the bilge for water and note whether it’s rising or if there’s fresh water that doesn’t come from rain. Look for signs of water intrusion around seams, fittings, and any area that took the impact. Listen for a rushing or hissing sound that could indicate a crack or leak, and inspect both inside and outside of the hull if possible. If you detect leaks or a rising water level, you should stop and head to shore or call for assistance rather than continuing. If no leaks are found and the boat remains stable, you can proceed cautiously while keeping a close eye on the bilge and speed. The key idea is to confirm hull integrity before continuing to prevent a potential emergency.