Question 24 MODU01 - Offshore Installation Manager

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 this specific exemption for Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft is codified in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Rule 23(c)(ii) addresses the special case of WIG craft which, due to their unique operational and structural characteristics (particularly the need to carry lights on the hull during the displacement or planing mode, where the available space is often very limited), cannot comply fully with the exact spacing requirements (like those specified in Rule 21(a)(i) and 21(a)(ii)) for masthead lights. The rule explicitly states that in such circumstances, the craft's lights "shall comply as closely as possible with those Rules, as determined by the appropriate authority of the State of registry." Option B ("An all-round light should be substituted for the after-masthead light and the stern light.") is incorrect. While substitution of lights is permitted for some vessels of special construction (e.g., air cushion vessels when operating in the non-displacement mode, or certain vessels of less than 12 meters), the specific required compensation for WIG craft that cannot meet spacing requirements is not to substitute an all-round light for both the after-masthead light and the stern light. WIG craft must still generally carry the full suite of required lights, just placed as close to compliance as possible. Option C ("The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.") is incorrect. Lights required by COLREGs cannot simply be omitted. The purpose of navigation lights is to inform other vessels of the craft's presence, size, and status. Omitting required lights would be a major violation of COLREGs and would severely endanger navigation safety. Option D ("The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.") is incorrect. The structural limitations (especially when operating close to the water surface) of WIG craft are inherent to their design and purpose. Recognizing these physical constraints, COLREGs Rule 23(c)(ii) provides the necessary regulatory exception, making physical alteration for full compliance unnecessary and often impossible or impractical for the vessel type.