What is the standard man overboard recovery sequence on a small boat?

What is the standard man overboard recovery sequence on a small boat?

• A. Stop all engines, deploy anchor, signal for help, and retrieve with a ladder
• B. Shout and point to the person, throw a flotation device or line, keep them in sight, turn the vessel toward them with a controlled maneuver, and haul them aboard with a ladder or boat hook when safe
• C. Immediately invert the boat, circle the MOB to approach from the windward side
• D. Maintain engine power, shout, and use a reach pole

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how to recover someone overboard in a safe, effective sequence on a small boat. The best approach starts with quick, clear actions to alert everyone and give the person something to help stay afloat, then moves to a controlled approach and safe boarding.

First, shout to the person and point to them to confirm their location and alert others on board. This ensures the MOB is aware you’ve noticed them and coordinates the crew’s response. Next, throw a flotation device or line. This provides immediate buoyancy and a graspable target, giving the MOB a better chance to stay afloat while you organize the recovery. Keeping the MOB in sight is crucial throughout so you don’t lose contact with them amid waves, spray, or glare.

Then steer toward the MOB with a controlled maneuver. Turning toward them helps reduce drift and positions the boat for a safer approach, avoiding frantic or chaotic movements that could endanger both the MOB and the crew. Finally, haul them aboard with a ladder or boat hook when it’s safe, making sure the deck is clear and the person can be helped onto the boat without injury.

After recovery, assess any injuries and provide assistance as needed before resuming sailing.

Why the other options don’t fit as well: simply stopping engines, deploying an anchor, signaling for help, and then retrieving with a ladder can leave you drifting away or slow the recovery. Maintaining engine power or using a reach pole alone can create dangerous propellers, unstable wake, and insufficient control to bring the MOB aboard. Inverting the boat or circling from the windward side is not a practical or safe recovery method on a small boat.