Question 9 OSV01 - Master/Chief Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** Rule 14 (Head-on situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both international and inland waters (often incorporated or paralleled in inland rules), explicitly addresses meeting head-on situations where there is a risk of collision. 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 ensures predictable, standardized action, reducing the risk of further confusion or collision. **Explanation of why other options are incorrect:** * **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal (the danger or doubt signal) is used to indicate that the vessel hearing or observing another vessel's intention is in doubt as to the proposed maneuver or is unsure of the circumstances. It is a warning signal, not the required maneuvering action (altering course to starboard) itself, although it might accompany the maneuver if confusion exists. * **B) Back down:** While reversing engines (backing down) is a possible action to reduce speed or stop headway, the specific requirement for a head-on situation involving power-driven vessels is to alter course to starboard (Rule 14) and, if necessary, take appropriate action to avoid collision (Rule 8). Backing down is not the prescribed initial action for predictable avoidance. * **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines is an appropriate action to reduce speed or allow time for the situation to clarify (Rule 8: Action to avoid collision). However, Rule 14 mandates a positive course alteration (to starboard) for head-on situations to ensure safe passing, making stopping engines alone insufficient as the primary required maneuver.