Question 5 RVR02 - Master of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** Option A, "The vessel downbound with a following current," is the correct answer according to the Inland Navigation Rules, specifically Rule 34(a)(i) pertaining to the Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary (Inland Only). This rule is designed to ensure safety and predictability in areas with currents. The vessel traveling *with* the current (downbound) has less maneuverability and more difficulty stopping or changing course due to the force of the current pushing it along. Therefore, the rules assign the responsibility for initiating the passing agreement—by sounding the first passing signal—to the vessel that has the current *with* it. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) Either vessel:** This is incorrect. In meeting situations on the Inland waters with a current, the rules specifically assign the initiative for the passing signal to one particular vessel (the downbound vessel). It is not a matter of mutual discretion where either vessel can initiate. * **C) The vessel going upstream stemming the current:** This is incorrect. The vessel stemming (going against) the current typically has better control and maneuverability because the current helps slow it down. The rule places the signaling responsibility on the vessel with *less* control, which is the downbound vessel traveling with the current. * **D) The vessel that is towing regardless of the current:** This is incorrect. While towing vessels have specific maneuvering limitations and may have priority in certain situations, the current-based rule for sounding the first passing signal between meeting vessels specifically overrides general vessel status. The deciding factor in this particular scenario is the current, not whether the vessel is towing.