Question 11 GLI03 - Master-LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Correct):** Option B is correct based on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and their equivalents in Inland Rules. A power-driven stand-on vessel (the vessel that has the "right-of-way" and must maintain its course and speed) is governed primarily by Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel). Rule 17(a)(i) mandates that the stand-on vessel shall "keep her course and speed." However, Rule 17(b) states that the stand-on vessel "may however take action to avoid collision as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in compliance with these Rules." This provision ensures that even the stand-on vessel must take action necessary to avoid a collision if the give-way vessel fails to act, but this action is typically taken later in the developing situation than the action required of the give-way vessel. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** **A) required to give-way in a crossing situation:** This is incorrect. The stand-on vessel is, by definition, the vessel required to *maintain* course and speed (stand-on), while the other vessel is the one required to *give-way* (keep clear). **C) required to sound the first passing signal in a meeting situation:** This is incorrect. In a meeting situation (head-on), neither vessel is strictly "stand-on" or "give-way" until a decision is made to pass port-to-port or starboard-to-starboard. Passing signals (one short blast for port, two short blasts for starboard) indicate the intent of the maneuvering vessel. The responsibility to sound the *first* signal generally falls to the vessel that initiates the maneuver or proposes the passing side, not necessarily the vessel that would otherwise be designated "stand-on" in a crossing situation. **D) free to maneuver in any crossing or meeting situation as it has the right of way:** This is incorrect. Having the "right of way" (being the stand-on vessel) does *not* grant the vessel freedom to maneuver. On the contrary, the primary requirement is to *maintain* course and speed to make the give-way vessel's task easier and predictable. Excessive or unnecessary maneuvering by the stand-on vessel can confuse the situation and contribute to the risk of collision.