Question 9 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

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), which applies to both International and Inland waters (with minor variations sometimes covered by local rules, but the core action remains the same). Rule 14(a) states that 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 shall pass on the port side of the other. This ensures a predictable, standardized, and safe passing procedure. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal is defined by Rule 34(d) as the danger or doubt signal, used when a vessel is in doubt as to the intentions or actions of the other vessel, or as to whether sufficient action is being taken. While sounding this signal might precede or accompany the required action if there is confusion, it is **not** the required *maneuver* for a head-on situation. The required maneuver is altering course to starboard (D). **B) Back down:** Backing down (reversing the engines) is a drastic action that significantly reduces speed but also reduces maneuverability and may not be the most effective action to avoid a collision when meeting head-on. The primary and required avoiding action in this specific scenario is altering course to starboard (D). **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines falls under Rule 17 (Action by the stand-on vessel) or the general requirements for avoiding collision (Rule 8), which emphasizes the need to take action early and effectively. While reducing speed (stopping engines) may be appropriate if the danger is imminent and there is not enough sea room for a full course change, it is not the *required* maneuver for a standard head-on meeting. The positive and required maneuver for the head-on situation is explicitly defined as turning to starboard (D).