Question 9 GLI01 - Master-Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** Option D is correct based on Rule 14 (Head-on situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (with minor variations, but the fundamental action remains the same). Rule 14(a) states: "When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision, each shall alter her course to starboard so that each may pass on the port side of the other." This rule mandates that in a head-on risk-of-collision scenario, the action taken must be a clear and simultaneous alteration of course by *both* vessels to their respective starboard sides, ensuring a predictable port-to-port passing. **Why the other options are incorrect:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal (the danger/doubt signal) indicates that the vessel hearing the signal does not understand the intentions or actions of the other vessel, or doubts whether sufficient action is being taken to avoid collision. It is an alarm signal, not the required maneuvering action itself in a head-on situation, which requires an affirmative course change (Rule 34(d)). **B) Back down:** While reversing the engine (backing down) is a possible action to reduce speed or stop, it is generally considered an emergency or drastic maneuver. The primary required action for avoiding collision in an open-water, head-on scenario is a positive alteration of course (Rule 8), which means altering course to starboard (Rule 14). **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines reduces speed, which can be part of avoiding collision (Rule 8), particularly when assessing the situation, but stopping the engines alone does not fulfill the positive maneuver requirement of Rule 14. The specific, mandated maneuver for a head-on situation is the alteration of course to starboard.