When broadcasting a distress message from a survival craft, what critical information must you provide to rescuers?

Providing your latitude and longitude when broadcasting a distress message from a survival craft is critical because it gives rescuers the exact location where you are situated. This information is vital for search and rescue operations, as it allows rescuers to quickly and efficiently locate you to offer assistance.

Having accurate positioning information, such as latitude and longitude, can significantly reduce the time it takes for rescuers to reach you, enhancing the chances of a successful recovery. While other pieces of information, such as the vessel's name, the number of people onboard, and the weather conditions, are also important in a distress situation, they do not convey the immediate critical location data needed for prompt rescue efforts.

Therefore, conveying latitude and longitude is the most essential information when alerting rescuers from a survival craft.