Question 47 OSV02 - Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** The required fog signal for a vessel being towed, whether it is an international (COLREGs Rule 35) or inland situation (Inland Rule 35), is defined by specifying that the vessel being towed is restricted in its ability to comply with the rules regarding avoiding collisions. However, the rule specifically addresses the signal for a vessel *not under command* or *restricted in its ability to maneuver*, and then separately addresses the signal for a vessel *being towed*. COLREGs Rule 35(e) specifies the signal for a manned vessel being towed: > A vessel being towed may give, in addition to the signal prescribed in paragraph (c) of this Rule, one prolonged followed by three short blasts. *Note:* Paragraph (c) requires the towing vessel to sound one prolonged followed by two short blasts. The vessel being towed has the option (but is generally expected when manned) to give a distinct signal. Inland Rule 35(e) is identical to the COLREGs requirement: > A vessel being towed may give, at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, one prolonged followed by three short blasts. Therefore, the distinctive fog signal for a manned vessel being towed is **One prolonged followed by three short blasts**. **Explanation for Why Other Options Are Incorrect:** * **A) One prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This is the required fog signal for a **towing vessel** (the one doing the towing), a vessel *not under command*, a vessel *restricted in her ability to maneuver*, a *sailing vessel*, a vessel *engaged in fishing*, or a vessel *engaged in dredging or underwater operations* (Rule 35(c)). It is not the distinct signal for the vessel being towed. * **B) Two prolonged blasts:** This is the fog signal for a vessel **at anchor** (Rule 35(f)) to be given immediately after or before the rapid ringing of the bell. It is not the signal for a vessel being towed. * **C) One prolonged followed by one short blast:** This is the maneuver-and-warning signal used in Inland Waters to indicate a vessel is passing on the **starboard side** (Inland Rule 34), or, internationally, it is the signal given by a vessel making way through the water (Rule 35(a)). It is not the distinct fog signal for a vessel being towed.