Question 29 GLI07 - OUPV

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (2) being correct:** The question refers to the requirements for a vessel anchored in a **U.S. Inland Waterway** (indicated by "INLAND ONLY") under the U.S. Inland Navigation Rules (33 CFR Subchapter E). Rule 30(a) (Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground) governs anchor light requirements. * Rule 30(a)(i) states that a vessel **less than 50 meters** in length must show one forward white anchor light. * Rule 30(a)(ii) states that a vessel **50 meters or more** in length must show two white anchor lights: one in the fore part of the vessel and one at or near the stern, lower than the forward light. Since the barge is **more than 50 meters long**, it falls under the requirement to show **two** white anchor lights. The designation "Secretary approved 'special anchorage area'" exempts vessels under 20 meters, or barges, from showing lights (Rule 30(g) and Rule 30(h)) **only if they are outside a channel or fairways or if they are in a clearly defined special anchorage area.** However, for a barge **more than 50 meters long**, the general requirement of Rule 30(a)(ii) (two lights) applies unless specifically exempted by the Secretary for that specific area, and the rules generally prioritize the length requirement for lights on larger vessels. Crucially, in common interpretation of the Inland Rules, a barge of this length is required to follow the standard requirement for vessels over 50 meters. Therefore, the correct number of anchor lights required is 2. **Explanation for why the other options are incorrect:** * **Option B (1):** This option is incorrect because one anchor light is required only for vessels anchored outside of a special anchorage area that are less than 50 meters in length (Rule 30(a)(i)). The vessel in question is over 50 meters long. * **Option C (3):** This option is incorrect. There is no standard rule requiring three white anchor lights for a vessel anchored in this scenario. Anchor lights are typically required in sets of one or two, depending on length. * **Option D (None):** This option is incorrect. While Rule 30(h) allows the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to designate "special anchorage areas" where vessels (including barges) may not be required to exhibit anchor lights, this exemption typically applies to smaller vessels or those anchored outside of channels, or areas specifically designated for no lighting. Given the barge's length (over 50 meters), it must comply with Rule 30(a)(ii) unless it is explicitly and clearly stated that the specific special anchorage area exempts all vessels, regardless of length. Standard navigation safety practice and the rules mandate lights for vessels over 50 meters.