Question 24 GLI06 - Master or Mate of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is A Option A ("The WIG's lights must comply as closely as possible, as determined by her government.") is correct because it directly reflects the exception provided in the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Annex I, Section 3(a). This section addresses special cases for certain vessels, including Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft, which are often physically constrained by their design from meeting all specified light locations and spacing requirements (such as the vertical separation between masthead lights). The Rule permits such vessels to deviate, provided the installation "shall comply with the requirements of this Annex as closely as possible." Furthermore, the Rule requires that the positioning of such lights "shall be as determined by her Government to be the closest possible compliance with these Rules." Option B (An all-round light should be substituted for the after-masthead light and the stern light.) is incorrect. While substitution and combination of lights are permitted in certain cases (e.g., small vessels under 12 meters), substituting an all-round light for the two separate lights mentioned is not the required or standard solution for a large WIG craft facing masthead spacing issues. Option C (The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.) is incorrect. A vessel cannot omit mandatory lights simply because their required placement cannot be achieved. The fundamental requirement is to display all required lights; the exception allows for flexibility in *placement* if full compliance is structurally impossible, but not for *omission*. Option D (The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.) is incorrect. WIG craft are structurally designed for high-speed operation close to the surface, and altering their structure solely to accommodate conventional light spacing rules would often compromise their airworthiness, safety, or functional design. COLREGs recognizes these inherent limitations and provides the exception (Option A) rather than demanding structural redesign.