Question 17 GLI03 - Master-LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for B (Sidelights and a stern light):** The lighting requirements for vessels being towed are governed by Rule 24(f) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Rule 24(f) states that a vessel or object being towed (other than those specified in paragraph (g)—an inconspicuous composite tow) shall exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 23 for a power-driven vessel underway (i.e., masthead light(s), sidelights, and a stern light), but shall not exhibit the masthead light(s) (Rule 24(f)(i)). However, a vessel or object being towed **alongside** is an exception detailed in Rule 24(f)(iii), which states: "A vessel or object being towed alongside shall exhibit the sidelights and a stern light." Therefore, a single vessel being towed alongside must show **sidelights and a stern light**. *** **Why other options are incorrect:** * **A) One all-round white light:** This is incorrect. An all-round white light is typically reserved for small fishing vessels or vessels under 7 meters in length with a maximum speed of 7 knots (Rule 23(d)(i)) or for objects being towed that are partially submerged or otherwise difficult to see (Rule 24(h)). It is not the correct display for a vessel being towed alongside. * **C) A masthead light, sidelights, and a stern light:** This is incorrect. While these lights are shown by a typical power-driven vessel underway (Rule 23), Rule 24(f)(i) specifically exempts the towed vessel from showing the masthead light(s). * **D) Only the outboard sidelight and a stern light:** This is incorrect. While it is true that the inboard sidelight may be obscured due to being alongside the towing vessel, the regulation (Rule 24(f)(iii)) requires the towed vessel to exhibit "the sidelights" (plural) and a stern light, implying both the red and green sidelights must be available and shown, even if one is obstructed by the tug. The regulation does not permit the omission of one sidelight.