Question 9 ONC03 - Master LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** Option D is correct because it directly states the Rule for vessels meeting end-on (head-on) under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 14 (A) and (B) (which applies equally to Inland rules): * **Rule 14 (A):** 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 action is the primary maneuver required to resolve the close-quarters situation safely and predictably, ensuring an allision is avoided by passing port-to-port. **Explanation of why other options are incorrect:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal is the **danger/doubt signal** (Rule 34(d)). While it might be sounded if the intentions of the other vessel are unclear or if the vessel doubts the proposed action is sufficient to avoid collision, it is **not** the required navigational action itself when meeting head-on. The required action is the course alteration to starboard. **B) Back down:** "Backing down" (reversing engines) is an extreme and often risky maneuver that involves removing forward steerage way and significantly reducing speed. While reducing speed (Rule 8(b)) or stopping engines (Rule 19(b)) might be part of an overall action to slow the rate of approach, backing down is generally only used as an action of last resort, not the standard required maneuver when meeting head-on. **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines falls under the obligation to take early and substantial action (Rule 8(a)). While stopping engines may be a necessary component of "action to avoid collision" (especially if taking all way off is required under the "Stand-on" vessel duties in certain situations or in fog), the **specific action** required when meeting head-on is the course alteration to starboard (Rule 14). Stopping engines alone does not resolve the danger by creating necessary passing room.