You are Master of a 20-ton ketch. You wish to heave-to on the starboard tack in 35 knots of wind. Which action would be appropriate?

Correct Answer: Option A — Secure your storm jib aback to starboard and sheet your reefed mizzen in flat. Secure your rudder hard to starboard.

Heaving-to in heavy weather requires balancing aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces. Securing the storm jib aback pushes the bow off, flattening the reefed mizzen counteracts the turning moment, and holding the rudder hard to leeward maintains stability.