You are anchored in the Aleutian Island chain and receive word that a tsunami is expected to strike the islands in six hours. What is the safest action?

Correct Answer: Option A — Get underway and be in deep, open-ocean water when the tsunami arrives.

Tsunamis are long-period waves that gain immense height and destructive power as they shoal in shallow water. The only safe procedure for a vessel is to reach deep, open-ocean water where the wave amplitude is minimal and the vessel can safely ride out the surge without grounding.