Question 37 RVR02 - Master of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why option D ("You must keep out of the way of the other vessel.") is correct:** This scenario describes two power-driven vessels meeting head-on, or nearly head-on, in accordance with Rule 14 (Head-on situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) (which applies to both International and Inland waters). However, the key defining factor in this question is the status of the vessels. Rule 3 defines a "sailing vessel" as any vessel under sail, provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used. Rule 3 also defines a "power-driven vessel" as any vessel propelled by machinery. Since the vessel described in the prompt is "under sail making 5 knots" and there is no indication that machinery is being used, your vessel is categorized as a **sailing vessel** (S/V). The other vessel is also described as a "sailing vessel." When two sailing vessels are approaching each other, Rule 12 (Sailing Vessels) applies. Rule 12(a)(i) states that when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way. In this scenario: * Your vessel: The apparent wind is broad on the **port beam**. This means the wind is coming from the port side. * The other vessel: The wind side is not explicitly stated, but they are "dead ahead on a meeting course." In a dead-ahead meeting situation between two S/Vs, Rule 12(a)(iii) also applies: if a vessel with the wind on the port side cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel has the wind on the port or starboard side, she shall keep out of the way. **Crucially, however, the apparent wind being on the port beam means your vessel has the wind on the port side.** Therefore, under Rule 12(a)(i), since your vessel has the wind on the port side, **you are the burdened vessel and must keep out of the way of the other vessel.** *(Note on Rule 14 applicability: If both vessels were power-driven, Rule 14 (Head-on situation) would require both to alter course to starboard. Since both are sailing, Rule 12 supersedes Rule 14.)* **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) You are only required to maneuver if collision cannot be avoided by maneuver of the other vessel.** This describes the responsibility of the stand-on vessel under Rule 17(b) (Action by Stand-on Vessel). Since your vessel has the wind on the port side (Rule 12(a)(i)), you are the burdened (give-way) vessel and must act first (Rule 16). * **B) Both vessels must maneuver to avoid collision.** This is incorrect for two sailing vessels under Rule 12 unless a situation falling under Rule 17(b) (Stand-on vessel taking action) develops. Rule 12 assigns primary responsibility to one vessel (in this case, yours) to keep clear. * **C) Only the other vessel must maneuver to avoid collision.** This is the opposite of the correct action. The other vessel is the stand-on vessel (Rule 17) and is required to hold course and speed unless collision cannot be avoided by the action of the burdened vessel alone.