[jrd22]

I have never been in this situation, but I have been close enough to have given it serious thought. I would agree with Cam about it being each captains decision based on the circumstances. If it was a well marked entrance with very few potential dangers and a calm night with a nice big moon I wouldn't hesitate to go in. If on the other hand it is a tricky, narrow dog leg entance and the wind is up and it's raining, I would have to have an emergency on board to risk giving it a try. I don't think this is one of those things that you can set an ironclad rule about, too many variables. Good subject to bring up though, you need to have thought about it in advance in order to make the right decision when the time comes; the temptation to go in would be pretty strong after a long, hard passage.

John