Question 15 GLI05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for A (Neither vessel is the stand-on vessel.) being correct:** The scenario involves two vessels crossing in fog that are **not in sight of one another**. This situation is governed by Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility) of both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules. Rule 19 is distinct from the steering and sailing rules (like Rules 14-18) which apply only when vessels are in sight. Rule 19 does not establish a "stand-on" and "give-way" relationship. Instead, it mandates that any vessel which hears the fog signal of another vessel apparently forward of her beam, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters situation with a vessel forward of her beam, **shall reduce her speed to bare steerageway or, if necessary, take all way off.** She shall then navigate with extreme caution until the danger of collision is over. The requirement is for both vessels to take immediate, cautious, and speed-reducing action, essentially acting as "give-way" vessels relative to the dangerous situation, thus establishing that neither vessel holds the privileges of a "stand-on" vessel. **Why the other options are incorrect:** **B) The vessel which hears the other vessel's fog signal first:** Rule 19 actions are triggered by hearing a signal forward of the beam or detecting the other vessel, but this trigger does not assign stand-on status. Both vessels must take appropriate avoiding action simultaneously once the risk is known, regardless of who detected whom first. **C) The vessel which has the other on her own starboard side:** This statement describes the requirement for a stand-on vessel under Rule 15 (Crossing Situation), but Rule 15 only applies when vessels are **in sight** of one another. Since the vessels are in fog and not in sight, Rule 19 applies, and the standard crossing rules are suspended. **D) The vessel which has the other on her own port side:** This statement describes the requirement for the give-way vessel under Rule 15 (Crossing Situation). As with option C, Rule 15 is inapplicable when vessels are not in sight in restricted visibility (Rule 19 applies). Furthermore, Rule 19 requires cautious action from both vessels, eliminating the clear role of a stand-on vessel.