Question 23 GLI06 - Master or Mate of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why Option D is Correct:** Option D ("if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change") is the direct standard criterion defined in Rule 7 (Risk of Collision) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the corresponding Inland Rules. Specifically, Rule 7(d)(i) states that such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change. A constant bearing, decreasing range (CBDR) indicates that the two vessels are on courses that will likely lead to a collision if no action is taken. **Why Options A, B, and C are Incorrect:** * **A) whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel:** While crossing ahead requires caution and might create a crossing situation (governed by specific rules), the mere action of crossing a track does not automatically mean a risk of collision currently exists in terms of the COLREGs definition. Risk must be *deemed* to exist based on bearing and range changes, not based solely on the intent to cross a path. * **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** An overtaking situation is defined by Rule 13, and it immediately establishes specific responsibilities (the overtaken vessel is privileged). However, the definition of an overtaking situation simply describes the relationship between the vessels' speeds and headings; it does not explicitly state that the *risk of collision* is deemed to exist merely by the action of approaching to overtake. Risk is determined by the criteria in Rule 7 (constant bearing/decreasing range). * **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions creates a head-on situation (Rule 14), which requires specific action from both vessels. Like the overtaking and crossing situations, this defines the relationship, but it does not satisfy the specific definition in Rule 7 for when *risk of collision shall be deemed to exist* (i.e., the bearing must be monitored; they could be passing safely with an altering bearing).