Question 23 GLI01 - Master-Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Correct Answer):** Option D, "if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change," is a direct quotation or close paraphrase of the primary criterion listed in Rule 7 (Risk of Collision) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both international (open sea) and inland waters (where COLREGs or compatible rules are enforced). Rule 7(a)(i) states that such risk shall be deemed to exist "if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change." A steady compass bearing combined with decreasing range indicates that the vessels are on a collision course. **Explanation of 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 track does not automatically mean a risk of collision currently exists, especially if the distance is great or the bearing is changing rapidly (indicating a wide miss). Risk of collision is determined by bearing stability and decreasing range, not simply crossing ahead. * **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** Overtaking situations (Rule 13) certainly involve risk, but the COLREGs do not state that risk "shall be deemed to exist" simply because one vessel is approaching to overtake. An overtaking situation is defined by the relative position and requires specific action, but the primary indicator of actual collision risk (when action is required) remains a steady bearing (Rule 7). * **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions are defined as a head-on situation (Rule 14). While high-risk, the rules do not mandate that risk "shall be deemed to exist" merely because of this geometry. If the vessels are clearly separated (e.g., in a wide channel) and the bearings are changing rapidly, no immediate risk of collision may exist. Rule 7 specifies the definite technical indicator, which is the steady bearing.