James Stevens

With a tidal stream of 4 knots, would you set off on port or starboard tack from the Needles to Cherbourg? Credit: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

There is a strong tidal stream. Would you set off on a port or starboard tack? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship

A blue ensign being worn by a yacht

Do you know the rules for wearing a blue ensign? Do you know who is entitled to wear a privileged ensign? What happens when a yacht with a privileged ensign…

Could you get a 56ft yacht into a tight berth with no working bow thruster? Credit: UKSA

How would you get a 56ft yacht into a tight berth with no working bow thruster and on a flood tide? James Stevens answers your Questions of Seamanship

At night, judging distance from a single flashing light can be difficult. There are tricks to help you judge distance at sea by eye

Being able to accurately judge distance at sea is just as vital in the digital age as it ever was, says James Stevens. We look at how to refine your…