Question 9 ONC07 - OUPV-Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Both vessels alter course to starboard) being correct:** This scenario is governed by Rule 14 (Head-on situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (as most Inland rules align with or explicitly adopt this principle). Rule 14(a) states: "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 standard maneuver ensures that the action is predictable, simultaneous, and unambiguous, thereby minimizing the risk of collision. **Explanation of why other options are incorrect:** * **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** Five or more short and rapid blasts is the danger or doubt signal (Rule 34(d)). While this signal might be used if one vessel doubts the action of the other, it is **not** the required action for the maneuver itself when meeting head-on. The required maneuver is altering course to starboard (D). * **B) Back down:** Backing down (reversing the engines) is an extreme action used primarily to immediately stop headway, usually in close-quarters situations or when required by the COLREGs (e.g., Rule 19 in restricted visibility). It is not the prescribed action for a standard head-on meeting. The prescribed action is a course change to starboard to facilitate a port-to-port passing. * **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** While stopping engines might be part of the requirement under Rule 19 (restricted visibility) or a general requirement to take "early and substantial action" (Rule 8), it is not the primary, mandatory action for a head-on passing situation. The specific action required by Rule 14 is the course alteration to starboard.