Question 23 FCP01 - First Class Pilot

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Correct Answer):** Option D, "if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change," is the direct quote (or accurate paraphrase) of the fundamental test for determining risk of collision as stated in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically **Rule 7(b)**. This rule states: > "Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change." A constant (or nearly constant) bearing coupled with a decreasing range (i.e., the vessel is getting closer) means the vessels are on a collision course. Therefore, risk of collision is deemed to exist under these circumstances. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel:** While crossing situations are dangerous and require specific action (Rule 15), the mere act of crossing a projected track does not automatically mean the *risk of collision* test (Rule 7) has been met. Risk is specifically defined by the change in bearing, not the geometry of the track lines. * **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** Overtaking situations (Rule 13) are also defined by specific geometry, but the risk of collision is still fundamentally determined by checking the bearing change. For example, an overtaking vessel could change course slightly, causing the bearing to change and potentially reducing the immediate risk, even though the vessel is still technically in an overtaking relationship. The COLREGs define the *risk* primarily by the bearing test (Rule 7). * **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions are in a head-on situation (Rule 14). However, if they are offset (e.g., they will pass well clear port-to-port), the bearing will change rapidly, and risk of collision is **not** deemed to exist under Rule 7(b). Only if the bearing remains constant in this head-on scenario is the risk deemed to exist.