During MOB, what is typically reported after keeping visual contact?

• A. Ship speed
• B. Weather conditions
• C. Fuel status
• D. Bearing and range

Answer: (D)

When you have visual contact with a person overboard, the immediate information to relay is their position relative to your vessel: bearing and range. Bearing is the direction from your ship to the MOB (typically given in degrees, relative to the ship’s bow or true north), and range is the distance between you. This pair gives a precise reference you can plot and follow as you maneuver toward the survivor, account for drift, and time your approach for a safe recovery. It keeps the rescue team oriented and able to coordinate changes in course and speed. Other details like ship speed, weather, or fuel are important for the overall operation, but bearing and range are the essential, actionable data for locating and recovering the person.