Question 23 ONC03 - Master LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why Option D is Correct:** Option D ("if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change") is the direct quotation or definitive interpretation of Rule 7(b) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules. Rule 7, concerning Risk of Collision, states that "Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change." A steady compass bearing (SCB) indicates that the two vessels are on a collision course, and therefore, a risk of collision is deemed to exist. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel:** While crossing situations often involve risk, simply crossing the intended track does not automatically mean a risk of collision is "deemed" to exist. The determination relies on the bearing change (Rule 7). For example, a vessel far ahead crossing the intended track poses no immediate risk. * **B) if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking:** Overtaking situations (Rule 13) are defined by risk of collision (the overtaking vessel must keep clear), but the *deemed* existence of risk (Rule 7) is determined by bearing change. An overtaking vessel may be approaching another on a wide track that still allows the bearing to change appreciably, particularly if the vessels are far apart initially. * **C) whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions:** Vessels approaching from opposite directions (head-on situation, Rule 14) are obligated to take action, but the risk of collision is not *deemed* to exist based solely on the direction of approach. If the vessels are safely separated (e.g., passing starboard to starboard with no risk of interaction) and the bearings are changing rapidly, no risk of collision is deemed to exist under Rule 7(b).