Question 7 RVR01 - Master of Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C is Correct Option C, "when you can take proper and effective action to avoid collision," is the correct definition because it directly reflects the requirements of Rule 6 (Safe Speed) of the COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). Rule 6 mandates that every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. The ultimate measure of a "safe speed" is the ability to maneuver and avoid danger effectively, making this the core purpose of the rule. ### Why Other Options Are Incorrect **A) when you are traveling slower than surrounding vessels** This is incorrect. While reducing speed might sometimes be necessary, being slower than other vessels does not automatically equate to a safe speed. A vessel traveling very slowly in heavy traffic or strong currents might still be unable to avoid collision effectively (e.g., if it lacks maneuverability), and thus, not be at a safe speed. Safe speed is determined by the vessel's ability to react, not relative speed to traffic. **B) when no wake comes from your vessel** This is incorrect. A vessel might produce no significant wake (e.g., traveling very slowly) but still be proceeding unsafely if visibility is extremely limited (fog) or if it is approaching a bend in a narrow channel. Wake considerations (like minimizing damage to shorelines) are separate practical considerations but are not the primary, universally applicable definition of a safe speed under COLREGS. **D) when you can stop within your visibility range** This is incorrect as the sole definition. While the COLREGS (Rule 6) explicitly requires that a vessel can be "stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions," and this often correlates with visibility, visibility range is only one of many factors listed in the Rule (including traffic density, maneuverability, and state of wind/sea/current). Furthermore, the core definition of safe speed is tied to the ability to take "proper and effective action to avoid collision," which encompasses more than just stopping; it includes maneuvering and changing course.