Question 17 GLI05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Sidelights and a stern light):** The lighting requirements for vessels being towed are governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 24 (Towing and Pushing) and Rule 27 (Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in their Ability to Manoeuvre) which directs back to the standard lighting requirements of Rule 23 (Power-driven vessels underway). A vessel being towed alongside another vessel (the towing vessel) is considered a vessel "underway" but not "power-driven." According to Rule 24(e), when a vessel (other than a vessel referred to in Rule 24(a)(i) or 24(a)(ii) – which deal with long tows) is being towed, it shall exhibit: 1. **Sidelights** 2. **A stern light** These are the lights of a standard vessel underway (but without the masthead light, as it is being towed). Therefore, "Sidelights and a stern light" is the correct combination. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) One all-round white light:** An all-round white light is typically reserved for small vessels (less than 7 meters in length and under 7 knots) or vessels at anchor (where it would be accompanied by a second light or deck lighting). It is not the correct display for a standard vessel being towed alongside. * **C) A masthead light, sidelights, and a stern light:** This combination is the required lighting display for a power-driven vessel that is **underway and not towing**. A vessel being towed alongside must not show a masthead light, as this would indicate that it is moving under its own power. * **D) Only the outboard sidelight and a stern light:** While there is a specific exception (Rule 24(h)) that allows the vessel being towed to omit the inboard sidelight if the aggregate length of the tow is less than 200 meters, this exception is for vessels being towed *astern* (in line), not *alongside*. For vessels towed alongside, the requirement is generally to show both sidelights and a stern light, making option B the most complete and correct standard requirement.