Question 44 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (sailing vessel) being correct:** The illustration D080RR (which is implied to show only the lights visible from a specific angle) depicts a single masthead light visible. If the question states that *only* the light shown is visible, and we assume this light is a white light displayed high on the vessel, this corresponds to the sternlight configuration of a sailing vessel when viewed from directly astern. According to COLREGs Rule 25 (Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars): * A sailing vessel must show sidelights and a sternlight. * However, if the sailing vessel is less than 20 meters in length, these lights may be combined in a single lantern carried at or near the top of the mast where it can best be seen. If a vessel is showing *only* a single white light visible at a high level, and no sidelights are visible (which would be the case when viewed from directly ahead or astern, depending on the combination arrangement), the single white light visible high up is characteristic of the optional combined lantern used by small sailing vessels, or potentially the stern light of a larger sailing vessel viewed from directly astern. Since sailing vessels are often characterized by a single white light (sternlight or all-around light from the combined lantern) when viewed from certain angles where sidelights are obscured, and none of the other options fits this minimal lighting scheme, a sailing vessel is the most appropriate identification. *(Note: While a strict stern view would show only a single white sternlight, if the vessel is less than 7 meters, it might only show an all-around white light. However, among the choices provided, the single visible light is best associated with the sternlight/combined light configuration of a sailing vessel.)* **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) vessel engaged in fishing:** A vessel engaged in fishing (trawling or non-trawling) is required to show specific vertical lights (green over white or red over white) and possibly a masthead light, sidelights, and a sternlight, depending on the type of fishing and the vessel's length. A single white light is insufficient and incorrect for a fishing vessel. * **B) vessel on pilotage duty:** A vessel on pilotage duty is required to show specific vertical lights (white over red) at the masthead, along with sidelights and a sternlight. A single white light is incorrect for a pilot vessel. * **C) law enforcement vessel:** While there is no specific mandated COLREG lighting configuration for general "law enforcement" status, a vessel generally must adhere to standard navigational lights (masthead, sidelights, sternlight). If it is a vessel of special nature, it might show specific emergency or operational lights, but a single white light high up does not define a standard law enforcement vessel.