Question 11 GLI01 - Master-Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is B. Option B is correct because it accurately reflects the responsibilities of a stand-on vessel under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules. Rule 17(a)(i) establishes that where one vessel is required to keep out of the way (the give-way vessel), the other vessel (the stand-on vessel) **shall keep her course and speed**. However, Rule 17(b) dictates that the stand-on vessel **may** take action to avoid collision as soon as it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action. This is the exception that allows the stand-on vessel to act when necessary to prevent danger, reinforcing the principle that all vessels must take action to avoid collision (Rule 2). Here is why the other options are incorrect: * **A) required to give-way in a crossing situation:** This is incorrect. A power-driven stand-on vessel is, by definition, the vessel required to **maintain** course and speed. The other vessel (which has the vessel on its starboard side) is the **give-way** vessel (Rule 15). * **C) required to sound the first passing signal in a meeting situation:** This is incorrect. Both vessels in a meeting situation are generally considered to be give-way vessels, and neither is the designated "stand-on" vessel (Rule 14). Additionally, passing signals (whistle signals) indicate proposed action (e.g., passing port-to-port or starboard-to-starboard) and are sounded by the vessel initiating the maneuver, not necessarily by a "stand-on" vessel. * **D) free to maneuver in any crossing or meeting situation as it has the right of way:** This is incorrect. Although the stand-on vessel has the initial "right of way" (meaning the other vessel must give way), it is explicitly **required to maintain course and speed** until the give-way vessel's failure to act creates immediate danger (Rule 17(a)(i) and (b)). It is not "free to maneuver" immediately. Furthermore, in a meeting situation, neither vessel is the stand-on vessel.