Question 9 MODU01 - Offshore Installation Manager

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** Option D is correct based on Rule 14 (Head-on situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (with minor variations typically adopting the COLREGs standard for this rule). Rule 14(a) states that when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision, **each shall alter her course to starboard** so that each shall pass on the port side of the other. This action is mandatory and immediately addresses the risk of collision by ensuring a predictable, predictable, and safe passing arrangement (known as "passing port-to-port"). **Explanation of why other options are incorrect:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal is prescribed by Rule 34(d) and is the **danger signal** or signal of doubt, used when a vessel is in doubt as to the intentions or actions of the other vessel, or when it determines that an action taken is insufficient to avoid collision. While the signal might be sounded *before* or *during* the maneuver if there is confusion, it is **not** the required navigational action to resolve the head-on situation itself. The required action is altering course to starboard. **B) Back down:** Backing down (reversing engines) is a drastic action that results in loss of steerageway and unpredictable movement, generally reserved for close-quarters emergencies (Rule 8(e) requires that actions taken to avoid collision must be “positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship”). Altering course is the preferred method for collision avoidance in open water situations like a head-on meeting. **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines is an action used when a vessel cannot determine the risk of collision or when collision is imminent and the vessel needs to "wait" for the situation to develop or allow another vessel to pass (Rule 19, Restricted Visibility; or general application of Rule 8(e)). In a clear head-on situation, merely stopping engines does not resolve the risk; it only slows the closure rate. The mandatory requirement under Rule 14 is to alter course to starboard.