With a tidal stream of 4 knots, would you set off on port or starboard tack from the Needles to Cherbourg? Credit: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

There is a strong tidal stream. Would you set off on a port or starboard tack? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship

A blue ensign being worn by a yacht

Do you know the rules for wearing a blue ensign? Do you know who is entitled to wear a privileged ensign? What happens when a yacht with a privileged ensign…

Could you get a 56ft yacht into a tight berth with no working bow thruster? Credit: UKSA

How would you get a 56ft yacht into a tight berth with no working bow thruster and on a flood tide? James Stevens answers your Questions of Seamanship

If there was a sudden ingress of water would you abandon ship?

You've discovered water ingress on board after hitting an object in the water. Should you abandon ship or not? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship