Question 10 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for B (Correct Option):** The scenario described falls under the rules governing Overtaking. According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) Rule 13 (Overtaking) and the U.S. Inland Rules equivalent, the vessel being overtaken (Vessel B) is considered the **stand-on vessel** and the vessel overtaking (Vessel A) is the **give-way vessel**. Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel) dictates the duties of the stand-on vessel. It explicitly states that the stand-on vessel "shall keep her course and speed." Therefore, Vessel B's primary duty is to **hold her course and speed** to allow Vessel A (the give-way vessel) to take the necessary avoiding action and pass safely. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) should slow down until vessel "A" has passed:** This is incorrect. Changing speed (slowing down) would violate Vessel B's duty to maintain her course and speed as the stand-on vessel. Predictable movement by Vessel B is crucial for Vessel A to execute a safe passing maneuver. * **C) may steer various courses and vessel "A" must keep clear:** This is incorrect. Vessel B is the stand-on vessel and must maintain a predictable course and speed (Rule 17). Steering "various courses" would create confusion and danger, violating the fundamental principle of the stand-on vessel's duty. While Vessel A must keep clear, Vessel B must remain predictable. * **D) should change course to the right:** This is incorrect. Changing course is an action reserved for the give-way vessel (Vessel A) or for the stand-on vessel only under exceptional circumstances (when collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel's action alone). Vessel B's primary duty is to hold course and speed.