Question 30 RVR02 - Master of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C is Correct Option C states: "Reduce your speed to the minimum at which it can be kept on course". This action is mandated by Rule 19(e) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to vessels operating in or near an area of restricted visibility (reduced visibility). Rule 19(e) states: "Except where it has been determined that a danger of collision does not exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters situation with another vessel forward of her beam, shall reduce her speed to be minimum at which she can be kept on her course and if necessary take all her way off and in any event navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision is over." In this scenario, the vessel is hearing the fog signal 30° on the starboard bow (which is forward of the beam), and the premise states that "danger of collision exists." Therefore, the immediate mandatory action is to reduce speed to the bare minimum required to maintain steerage (keep on course). ### Why the Other Options are Incorrect **A) Alter course to port and pass the other vessel on its port side** **Incorrect.** Rule 19(d) specifically restricts course alterations in reduced visibility when a vessel is hearing a fog signal forward of the beam. It states that a vessel shall "not alter course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than when she is being overtaken." Making a significant alteration to port is highly dangerous and explicitly prohibited in this situation as it increases the risk of collision, especially since the relative positions are uncertain in the fog. **B) Alter course to starboard to pass around the other vessel's stern** **Incorrect.** While altering course to starboard is generally preferred over altering to port, Rule 19(d) also advises against making any large alteration of course or speed until the danger is assessed and the other vessel's position is clearly understood. Making a large course alteration (starboard) without knowing the other vessel's exact heading or speed is premature and could lead to collision if the other vessel is also maneuvering. The primary action is always speed reduction first, as per 19(e). **D) Slow your engines and let the other vessel pass ahead of you** **Incorrect.** While slowing engines is part of the correct action, simply "letting the other vessel pass ahead" is not the complete or correct regulatory requirement. Rule 19(e) requires reducing speed to the *minimum at which she can be kept on her course*. Depending on the circumstances, this might also include taking all way off (stopping). Option C accurately reflects the specific regulatory language and mandatory action required under Rule 19(e), whereas Option D is vague and incomplete.