Question 9 RVR03 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C **Why option C is correct:** Rule 10(g) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which governs the use of Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS), states that "A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid anchoring in a traffic separation scheme or in areas near its terminations." Anchoring in the termination areas can interfere with vessels joining or leaving the scheme, or crossing traffic lanes, thereby increasing the risk of collision. This rule applies equally to vessels operating under the International and Inland rules (where Inland rules incorporate or mirror COLREGs TSS provisions). **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) use the separation zone for navigating through the scheme if she is hindering other traffic due to her slower speed:** This is incorrect. Rule 10(b)(ii) strictly dictates that a vessel using a TSS shall "so far as practicable, keep clear of a separation zone or separation line." The separation zone is specifically reserved for emergencies or certain specific actions (like fishing or crossing), not for routine navigation, regardless of the vessel's speed or whether it is hindering other traffic. Slower vessels must remain within the designated traffic lane. * **B) only anchor in the separation zone:** This is incorrect. Rule 10(g) generally prohibits anchoring within the scheme entirely, including the separation zone, unless it is an emergency or an unavoidable circumstance. The separation zone is not designated as an anchoring area. * **D) avoid crossing traffic lanes, but if obliged to do so, shall cross on as small an angle as is practical:** This is incorrect. Rule 10(c) states that a vessel crossing traffic lanes "shall normally cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow." Crossing at a small angle (acute angle) is dangerous because it forces the crossing vessel to spend much more time in the path of oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of collision.