Question 17 GLI02 - Mate of Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Sidelights and a stern light):** Option B is correct based on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 24 (Towing and Pushing) and the associated annexes regarding lighting. When a single vessel is being towed alongside (pushed ahead in a composite unit), it is considered part of the tow or composite unit. Rule 24(c) dictates the lights for a power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing alongside. However, the specific lights for the **towed vessel itself** are addressed by the requirements for an inconspicuous object or vessel being pushed ahead (which applies by analogy to being towed alongside in a compact formation): * **Rule 24(g) (ii):** A vessel or object being towed alongside shall exhibit, if partially or wholly obscured by the towing vessel, lights as follows: * **Sidelights** at the forward end. * A **stern light** at the after end. These lights maintain the appearance of a normal vessel to an observer, indicating its presence and orientation, even though it is part of a larger towing operation. --- **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) One all-round white light:** * This light configuration (typically reserved for small vessels, vessels at anchor, or certain specialized vessels like pilot boats or fishing vessels when required) does not provide the directional information (sidelights and stern light) necessary for a vessel being towed alongside. **C) A masthead light, sidelights, and a stern light:** * A masthead light signifies a power-driven vessel underway. The towed vessel is not under its own power. Displaying a masthead light in addition to the lights required by Rule 24(g)(ii) would confuse observers as to whether it is a separate, independent power-driven vessel or part of the tow. **D) Only the outboard sidelight and a stern light:** * Rule 24(g)(ii) requires both sidelights (if visible) to properly delineate the extent of the vessel being towed, ensuring observers see its full breadth, not just the outboard side. While the inboard sidelight might be obscured by the towing vessel, the requirement is to show the regular navigation lights (sidelights and stern light) appropriate for its size and position. If only the outboard light is shown, the required arc of visibility for the navigation lights is not fully met for the forward aspect.