Question 24 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

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 situation (compliance issues for WIG craft) is directly addressed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Rule 23, which governs power-driven vessels underway, and Rule 1(e), which addresses novel craft, both point to Rule 23(b). Rule 23(b) states that a Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft shall, when taking off, landing, and during flight near the surface, be considered a power-driven vessel and shall comply with the rules for lights and shapes as closely as possible, as determined by her Government. This acknowledges the unique structural and operational limitations of WIG craft which often prevent full compliance with the strict spacing requirements for lights, particularly masthead lights. 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 certain vessels (like small vessels under 12 meters), this specific substitution pattern is not the designated solution for WIG craft failing to meet spacing requirements. The primary mandate for WIG craft is maximum possible compliance, not mandatory substitution. Option C ("The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.") is incorrect. Omitting required lights is a serious violation of COLREGs and would severely impair the vessel's visibility and identification, increasing collision risk. The requirement is to comply as closely as possible, meaning lights must be carried, even if their spacing is slightly off. Option D ("The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.") is incorrect. Given the specialized and often structurally rigid design of high-speed craft like WIGs, full compliance with traditional spacing requirements (which are often based on larger, conventional ships) may be physically impossible without compromising the craft's function or safety. COLREGs specifically provide the exemption in Rule 23(b) because they recognize this structural limitation.