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All questions
Marine radio

A yacht is being driven onto rocks, cannot arrest the approach and needs immediate outside help. Which priority is appropriate?

Short answer

Mayday, because the danger is grave and imminent and immediate assistance is required

Priority follows the current danger, not the original fault label. With an uncontrolled approach to rocks and immediate help required, the Mayday threshold is met.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom marine vhf and internationally harmonised procedure; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

A yacht is being driven onto rocks, cannot arrest the approach and needs immediate outside help. Which priority is appropriate?