Question 48 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation of Option C (Correct Answer):** Option C, "One prolonged and two short blasts at two-minute intervals," is the correct fog signal for a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver (RAM) or a vessel **at anchor that is required to signal its identity** when sounding the signals prescribed in Rule 35. Specifically, under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 35(c) states that a vessel engaged in fishing, or a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver, when making way through the water, shall sound at intervals of not more than two minutes **one prolonged blast followed by two short blasts**. Although the question specifies the vessel is "at anchor," a vessel "engaged in fishing" is a specific category of vessel restricted in its maneuverability (Rule 3(g)). Rule 35(c) is often applied to vessels fishing, regardless of whether they are moving or briefly holding position (like anchoring to set nets or traps). While a vessel merely "at anchor" sounds the bell (Rule 35(f)), a vessel **engaged in fishing** is obligated to signal its status as a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver, which uses the signal described in 35(c). *Note: While there is some ambiguity in the phrasing "engaged in fishing while at anchor" (as a vessel truly "at anchor" defaults to 35(f)), navigational standards interpret a vessel actively engaged in fishing operations, even if temporarily anchored or holding position, to use the distinct RAM/Fishing signal to warn other vessels of its status and gear in the water, which is **one prolonged followed by two short blasts** at intervals not exceeding two minutes.* **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) A rapid ringing of the bell for five seconds at one-minute intervals:** This is the signal for a vessel **at anchor** (Rule 35(f)). Since the vessel is also "engaged in fishing" (a type of restricted vessel), it must use the specific RAM/Fishing signal (C) to indicate its restricted status. **B) One prolonged and three short blasts at two-minute intervals:** This signal is designated for a vessel **being towed** (Rule 35(e)). It is not used for fishing vessels. **D) A sounding of the bell and gong at one-minute intervals:** This is the signal required for a vessel **at anchor** over 100 meters in length (Rule 35(g)). Since the vessel is also "engaged in fishing," it must use the specific RAM/Fishing signal (C). Furthermore, the required interval for the bell and gong is not always exactly one minute (it's specified as "at intervals of not more than one minute").