Question 15 GLI07 - OUPV

The Correct Answer is A ### 1. Why Option A ("Neither vessel is the stand-on vessel.") is Correct The situation described is two power-driven vessels crossing in conditions of restricted visibility (fog), and they are **not in sight of one another**. This scenario is governed primarily by Rule 19 (Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility) of the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). When vessels are crossing under normal circumstances (Rule 15), one is designated the give-way vessel and the other the stand-on vessel. However, Rule 19 supersedes the crossing rules when visibility is restricted and the vessels are not in sight. Rule 19(d) states that if a vessel detects the presence of another vessel by radar or hears the fog signal of an approaching vessel forward of the beam (which implies risk of collision): 1. She shall take action to avoid collision. 2. If she considers the circumstances require, she shall reduce her speed to bare steerageway or even stop her engines. 3. She shall, if possible, not make a change of course to port for a vessel apparently forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken. 4. She shall, if possible, not change course towards a vessel abreast or abaft the beam. Crucially, **Rule 19 does not establish a stand-on/give-way relationship** based on the quadrant (port/starboard side) when vessels are not in sight. Both vessels are treated as vessels meeting in restricted visibility, and **both are required to take action** to avoid collision. Therefore, neither vessel has the status of a privileged (stand-on) vessel. ### 2. Why Other Options Are Incorrect * **B) The vessel which hears the other vessel's fog signal first:** While hearing the fog signal requires immediate action (Rule 19(d)), it does not confer stand-on status. Both vessels are likely hearing each other's signals and both must take appropriate precautions (such as reducing speed or stopping) to avoid collision. * **C) The vessel which has the other on her own starboard side:** This applies to the crossing rule (Rule 15), where the vessel that sees the other vessel to her starboard must give way. However, Rule 15 applies only when vessels are **in sight of one another**. In fog (Rule 19), the side the other vessel is on is irrelevant for establishing stand-on status, as the primary duty is collision avoidance through speed reduction and cautious maneuvering by both vessels. * **D) The vessel which has the other on her own port side:** This vessel would typically be the stand-on vessel under Rule 15, but again, this rule is inapplicable when vessels are not in sight and are navigating under Rule 19. Both must take action.