Question 16 ONC06 - Master LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Why option C ("navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility") is correct:** The steering and sailing rules for vessels in restricted visibility are governed by Rule 19 of the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). This rule explicitly states that it applies to vessels **not in sight of one another** when navigating **in or near an area of restricted visibility**. The intention is to ensure that vessels take precautions *before* they are fully engulfed in the restricted visibility and also to ensure safety when operating close to such areas (like a fog bank). 2. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) only if they have operational radar:** Rule 19 applies to **all** vessels, regardless of whether they are equipped with radar. While radar-equipped vessels have additional specific responsibilities under this rule (Rule 19(d)), the general obligations regarding speed, having engines ready, and sounding fog signals apply universally when in or near restricted visibility. * **B) in sight of one another in fog:** If vessels are "in sight of one another," they revert to the steering and sailing rules applicable to vessels in sight of one another (Rules 11-18), even if they are in fog. Rule 19 specifically applies when vessels are **not** in sight of one another. * **D) only if they are showing special purpose lights:** The application of Rule 19 is determined by visibility conditions, not by the type of lights a vessel is displaying. Special purpose lights (such as those indicating restricted ability to maneuver or towing operations) are governed by Rule 27 and 24, but their display does not define when restricted visibility rules apply.