Question 31 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C **Why option C ("Has a tow that exceeds 200 meters in length") is correct:** The illustration D010RR (which is the required reference for this question, depicting the regulatory shapes for navigation) shows three shapes displayed vertically: a **diamond** shape positioned between two **black balls**. According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS Rule 24) and the corresponding Inland Rules, a vessel engaged in towing that has a tow exceeding 200 meters in length must display this specific day signal arrangement. The top ball signifies a towing operation, the diamond signifies a tow exceeding 200 meters, and the bottom ball completes the standard signal for a towing vessel. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) Is at anchor:** A vessel "at anchor" displays a single black ball (Rule 30). * **B) Is not under command:** A vessel "not under command" displays two black balls, one above the other (Rule 27). * **D) Has a tow that is carrying hazardous cargo:** There is no specific day shape defined in COLREGS or the Inland Rules solely for a vessel based on the hazardous nature of its cargo. The displayed shape relates exclusively to the length of the tow.