Question 14 RVR03 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation of B (Correct Option):** Option B states: "Your vessel is the give-way vessel in a crossing situation." The scenario describes a power-driven vessel that is stopped and making no way, but is not disabled. The vessel retains its maneuverability. By definition, under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), a power-driven vessel remains a power-driven vessel unless it meets the specific criteria for being "not under command" (Rule 3(f)) or "restricted in her ability to maneuver" (Rule 3(g)). Since the vessel is approaching on your starboard beam, this establishes a crossing situation (Rule 15). In a crossing situation, the vessel which has the other vessel on its own starboard side (in this case, your vessel) is the **give-way vessel** and must take action to keep clear of the stand-on vessel (Rule 15(a)). Stopping does not relieve a power-driven vessel of its crossing obligations. **Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:** * **A) You should be showing the lights or shapes for a vessel not under command.** This is incorrect. A vessel not under command (NUC) is unable to maneuver as required by the Rules (Rule 3(f)). The scenario explicitly states your vessel is "not in any way disabled." Since the vessel retains its ability to maneuver, it must display the lights/shapes of a power-driven vessel and comply with the steering and sailing rules. * **C) You should be showing the lights or shapes for a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.** This is incorrect. A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM) is one engaged in work that restricts its ability to deviate (e.g., dredging, laying cable, servicing aids to navigation) (Rule 3(g)). Simply being stopped and making no way does not qualify a vessel as RAM. * **D) The other vessel must give-way since your vessel is stopped.** This is incorrect. The fact that a power-driven vessel is stopped does not automatically elevate it to stand-on status or relieve the stopped vessel of its duty to give way in a crossing situation. Stand-on status is determined by the specific Steering and Sailing Rules (Rules 11-18) based on the vessels' relative positions and types, not merely whether one vessel is temporarily stopped. Since your vessel is the give-way vessel (Rule 15), the other vessel is the stand-on vessel (Rule 17).