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MOB action – without an engineA simple way to make the recovery, whichrequires practice to ensure it succeeds.1. Steer yacht into an ‘apparent’ beamreach (burgee across the yacht). Allowsea room to manoeuvre and getorganised to recover the casualty.2. Tack and sail on the opposite beamreach so the casualty is now on theweather bow.3. Approach on a close reach, easing thesheets in the final stages. Rememberthat leeway will increase as the yachtslows down.4. It is often easier to come alongside towindward of the casualty.MOB action – with an engineThe aim is to stay as close as possible tothe casualty:1. Turn into the wind and tack, leavingthe headsail cleated so the yacht stopshove-to.2. If in range, throw a heaving line to thecasualty and haul alongside.3. If not within range, start the engine,lower or furl the headsail.4. Sheet the mainsail amidships.■ Before engaging gear, ensure there areno lines that could foul the propeller.■ Motor to leeward of the casualty andapproach head to wind.24