Question 20 ONC07 - OUPV-Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct):** Vessel "A" is a vessel engaged in fishing, and Vessel "B" is a tanker. Both vessels are operating in a narrow channel. According to Rule 9(b) (Narrow Channels), a vessel less than 20 meters in length or a **vessel engaged in fishing** shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. Tankers, due to their size and draft, generally fall into the category of vessels that can safely navigate only within the channel. Vessel "B" sounding five short and rapid blasts is the danger signal (Rule 34(d)), indicating that Vessel "B" doubts Vessel "A"'s intentions or believes Vessel "A" is creating a dangerous situation by potentially impeding its passage. Therefore, Vessel "A"'s required action under both Rule 9 and in response to the danger signal is to ensure it does not impede the safe passage of Vessel "B" and take immediate, effective action to remove the danger. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) maintain course and speed:** This action is incorrect and potentially dangerous, especially after hearing the danger signal (five short blasts). Maintaining course and speed directly contradicts the obligation under Rule 9(b) to not impede the passage of a vessel like Vessel "B" in a narrow channel, and it ignores the warning that Vessel "B" perceives a threat. * **B) not answer the whistle signals from vessel "B":** While the five-blast signal is generally not answered with a specific signal, the critical failure here is the implied lack of action. Hearing the danger signal requires the vessel to take immediate action to resolve the situation and eliminate the doubt/danger, not merely remain silent. * **C) sound one prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This signal (Rule 34(c)) is the signal used by a power-driven vessel when preparing to overtake another vessel in a narrow channel on the other's port side. Vessel "A" is a fishing vessel, not generally the overtaking vessel in this scenario, and using this signal would be inappropriate and confusing, as it is not the required response to a danger signal.