Question 9 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

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) and the corresponding Inland Rules. This rule specifically addresses the action required when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses and there is a risk of collision. Rule 14(a) states: "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 may pass on the port side of the other." This established, predictable maneuver ensures that the risk of collision is avoided by keeping the vessels port-to-port, allowing for safe passage. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal (at least five short and rapid blasts) is the danger or doubt signal (Rule 34(d)). It is used to indicate that the vessel hearing or seeing the approaching vessel doubts whether sufficient action is being taken by the other vessel to avoid collision. While this signal *might* be used if a vessel fails to take the required action, it is not the *required action* itself for resolving the head-on situation; the required action is altering course to starboard. **B) Back down:** "Backing down" (reversing engines) is an extreme maneuver used as a last resort to check headway (Rule 8(e)). While any action taken must be positive and ample (Rule 8(a) and 8(b)), reversing engines is not the standard, required maneuver for a head-on meeting situation, which is resolved primarily by course alteration to starboard. **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines may be necessary to allow more time to assess the situation or to reduce speed (Rule 8(b)), but merely stopping the engines does not resolve the lateral risk of collision inherent in a head-on situation. The mandatory resolution for a head-on meeting is the course alteration to starboard.