While your vessel is docked port side to a wharf, a sudden gale force wind causes the vessel's bow lines to part. The bow begins to fall away from the dock, and no tugs are immediately available. Which measure(s) should you take FIRST?

Correct Answer: Option D — Let go the starboard anchor.

Dropping the starboard anchor immediately when bow lines part at a port-side berth prevents the vessel from swinging broadside onto the wharf, utilizing the seabed to hold the bow against offshore gale forces.