Question 24 GLI07 - OUPV

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A is correct because it directly reflects the exception provided in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Annex I, Section 5(a). This section acknowledges that, due to the unique structural characteristics of certain vessels, like Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft, full compliance with the precise positioning and spacing requirements for lights (as detailed in Annex I) may be impossible. In such cases, the Rule states that the lights must comply "as closely as possible" to the requirements, and this determination of what constitutes "as closely as possible" is made by the competent authority of the vessel's government (e.g., the flag state administration). **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) An all-round light should be substituted for the after-masthead light and the stern light.** This is incorrect. While COLREGs permit substitution of lights for certain vessels (like air-cushion vessels when operating in the non-displacement mode, or specialized vessels of unusual design), there is no general provision or specific requirement in Annex I or the Rules themselves mandating this particular substitution (an all-round light for the after-masthead and stern light) specifically when only the masthead light spacing is non-compliant on a WIG craft. * **C) The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.** This is incorrect and dangerous. Vessel lighting requirements are mandatory for safety. A vessel cannot simply omit required lights because they cannot meet the specific spacing requirements. The requirement is to comply "as closely as possible" (Option A), not to omit the light entirely. * **D) The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.** This is incorrect. COLREGs recognizes that for vessels of specialized function or design (such as WIG craft, which rely on specific aerodynamics and structural lightness), altering the vessel to meet lighting spacing standards might compromise its primary function or airworthiness. Therefore, the exception (Option A) exists specifically because alteration is often infeasible or impractical.