If you have to abandon ship and enter a liferaft, what should be your primary course of action?

When abandoning a ship, your primary course of action should be to remain in the vicinity of the sinking vessel. This choice is crucial because rescue operations are typically organized around the last known location of the ship. By staying close to the site, you increase the chances of being spotted and rescued by search parties, which may be actively looking for survivors in that area.

Remaining near the vessel also helps to ensure that other survivors can group together, thereby improving safety and visibility. It serves as a strategic decision, as the drifting liferaft might be spotted more easily by rescue boats or aircraft looking for the ship.

Attempts to sail away or fish for food may divert attention from the primary goal of signaling for help. While signaling for rescue teams is important, it is usually more effective when combined with the decision to stay near the vessel. Instead of taking immediate action that could lead you away from potential rescue attempts, focusing on remaining in the vicinity maximizes survival prospects.