Question 31 RVR02 - Master of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A is correct based on the Rules of the Road (specifically Rule 17(b) in both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules). Rule 17 governs the action of the stand-on vessel. While the stand-on vessel is generally required to maintain its course and speed, Rule 17(b) states that the stand-on vessel "may take action to avoid collision by her maneuver alone as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action." More critically, Rule 17(c) mandates that "When, from any cause, the stand-on vessel finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to avoid collision." Therefore, when vessels are in immediate danger, the stand-on vessel shifts from passive avoidance to active intervention, taking action to assist in avoiding the collision. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **B) Abandon ship:** Abandoning ship is an emergency procedure taken after a catastrophic event or when sinking is imminent, not a maneuvering action to prevent a collision. The immediate priority is to use maneuvering capabilities to avoid the danger. * **C) Hold course and speed until the danger of collision is past and clear:** This is the primary duty of the stand-on vessel *initially* (Rule 17(a)(i)). However, this duty changes immediately when collision becomes unavoidable or when it is clear the give-way vessel is failing to act. In the situation described ("immediate danger of collision"), the mandatory requirement shifts to taking action (Rule 17(c)), making holding course and speed the incorrect action at that critical moment. * **D) Sound a distress signal:** A distress signal indicates that a vessel is in grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance (e.g., Mayday). While a vessel in immediate danger of collision might be under duress, the initial requirement is to maneuver actively to prevent the collision, not simply to call for external help. Maneuvering takes precedence over sounding a distress signal.