Question 3 RVR03 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation of why option B ("it is a large course change") is correct:** This question relates to Rule 8 (Action to Avoid Collision) of the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea), specifically Rule 8(b) and Rule 8(c). * **Rule 8(b) states:** "Any alteration in course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be **large enough to be readily apparent** to another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided." If a vessel decides that a course change alone is the most effective action, that change must be significant enough (a "large course change") so that the other vessel can immediately detect the maneuver, confirm that the vessel is taking action, and understand the vessel's intentions. Small or ambiguous changes are dangerous because they may not register quickly on the radar or visually, leading the other vessel to delay its own action or misinterpret the situation. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) the course change is to starboard:** While Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility) and certain rules for crossing situations often involve maneuvering to starboard, Rule 8 itself does not mandate the direction of the course change for effectiveness. The effectiveness hinges on the *magnitude* of the change, not the direction, though in specific situations (like head-on or crossing) the direction may also be prescribed by other rules. * **C) it is done in a succession of small course changes:** This is explicitly contrary to the guidance in Rule 8(b). A succession of small changes is to be avoided because they are difficult to interpret, often appear as 'wobbling,' and are not readily apparent to the other vessel. * **D) it is NOT done too early:** While Rule 8(d) mandates that action should be taken "in ample time," the effectiveness of the action (if it is a course change alone) is judged by its magnitude (Rule 8(b)), not just its timing. Taking a course change too late is the larger danger, but taking a large course change in ample time is the ideal procedure. The condition for a course change *alone* being effective is primarily its visibility and magnitude, not its timing relative to the encounter.