When analysing answers submitted by users on the GYRO platform, we regularly notice certain patterns. Some questions cause significantly more mistakes than others, even among experienced seafarers.

One of these questions relates to a basic requirement from the Life-Saving Appliances Code (LSA Code).

Let’s take a closer look.

The Question

What speed should the lifeboat achieve when towing a 25-person liferaft loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment?

Answer options:

• 2 knots
• 4 knots
• 6 knots
• 8 knots

A large number of users choose 6 knots. However, the correct answer is 2 knots.

What the LSA Code Actually Says

According to LSA Code 4.4.6.8, the requirement regarding lifeboat speed actually consists of two different parts.

First, the Code defines the minimum speed of the lifeboat itself:

“The speed of a lifeboat when proceeding ahead in calm water, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with all engine powered auxiliary equipment in operation, shall be at least 6 knots.”

This means that a lifeboat must be capable of making at least 6 knots in calm water when fully loaded with persons and equipment.

Lifeboat Towing Requirement

The same paragraph continues with another requirement:

“…and at least 2 knots when towing the largest liferaft carried on the ship loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment or its equivalent.”

This means that when a lifeboat is towing a fully loaded liferaft, it must be capable of maintaining at least 2 knots.

Why Many Seafarers Get This Question Wrong

The confusion usually happens because seafarers remember the number 6 knots, which refers to the minimum speed of the lifeboat itself.

When they see a question related to lifeboat speed in a test, they often select 6 knots automatically, without noticing that the question specifically refers to towing a liferaft.

As a result, the correct answer — 2 knots — is frequently overlooked.

Why This Requirement Matters

The ability of a lifeboat to tow a liferaft is an important operational requirement during emergency situations.

After abandoning ship, a lifeboat may need to:

• gather multiple liferafts together
• tow rafts away from the casualty vessel
• organise survivors into a safer formation

For this reason, the LSA Code specifies a minimum towing capability.

Training Matters

Making mistakes during training is normal.

What matters is identifying knowledge gaps and improving them before facing real emergency situations at sea.

Training and regular testing help seafarers stay confident in their understanding of safety equipment and procedures.

Test Your LSA Knowledge

If you want to check your understanding of basic LSA requirements, try the following test:

LSA Code — Basic Safety Knowledge

https://app.gyro.team/tests/lsa-code-life-saving-appliance-d09343d6/

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