Question 21 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for B (More than two vessels crossing):** The term "special circumstance" under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which apply to both international and inland waters, refers to situations that are not explicitly covered by the standard steering and sailing rules (Part B, Sections I, II, and III) or require deviation from them to avoid immediate danger. While COLREGs provide rules for two vessels crossing (Rule 15), they do not explicitly detail the maneuvering responsibilities when **more than two vessels** are involved in a close-quarters, crossing situation simultaneously. This unusual scenario, where the standard two-vessel rules become inadequate or contradictory, often necessitates reliance on the general provisions of Rule 2 (Responsibility) and Rule 18 (Responsibilities between vessels) and is treated as a "special circumstance" requiring good seamanship and potentially non-standard action to prevent a collision. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:** * **A) Speed in fog:** While speed must be moderated in fog (restricted visibility), the requirement to proceed at a safe speed is a fundamental, explicit rule (Rule 6 and Rule 19) and is therefore a standard procedure, not a special circumstance. * **C) Vessel at anchor:** A vessel at anchor is specifically covered by the Rules concerning lights, shapes, and proper lookout (Rule 30 and Rule 5) and is explicitly given specific status regarding maneuvering (Rule 18). This is a normal status covered by the rules. * **D) Two vessels meeting:** The procedure for two power-driven vessels meeting head-on is fully and explicitly detailed in Rule 14 (Head-on situation). This is a common situation governed by a standard rule, not a special circumstance.