Question 7 RVR04 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C is Correct Option C, **"when you can take proper and effective action to avoid collision,"** is the definitive answer because it directly reflects the requirements of Rule 6 (Safe Speed) of the COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea). Rule 6 does not specify a numerical speed limit, but rather requires a vessel to proceed at a speed at which it can take action appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions to avoid a collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to those circumstances and conditions. The key operational requirement of "safe speed" is the ability to maintain full control and have adequate time to maneuver effectively to prevent a collision. ### Why Other Options Are Incorrect **A) when you are traveling slower than surrounding vessels** This is incorrect. While reducing speed is often part of maintaining a safe speed, simply being slower than surrounding traffic does not guarantee a safe speed. If visibility is poor, or traffic density is extremely high, even a relatively slow speed might still be unsafe if it does not allow time for proper action. Furthermore, sometimes traveling with the flow of traffic (though still safely) is preferable to being significantly slower. **B) when no wake comes from your vessel** This is incorrect. "No wake" implies a speed near bare steerageway, which might be extremely slow. While reducing wake is courteous and often necessary in restricted waters (like marinas or channels), it is not the primary definition of a safe speed under COLREGS. A vessel must maintain speed adequate for control and maneuvering, even if that speed generates some wake. **D) when you can stop within your visibility range** This is partially correct but incomplete and misleading as a definition of "safe speed." Rule 6 requires that the speed allows the vessel to be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. While stopping within the range of visibility is a critical factor, especially in restricted visibility (Rule 19 requires this), the overarching definition of safe speed (Rule 6) includes the ability to take **proper and effective action** (which might mean maneuvering, changing course, or slowing down, not just stopping) and must also account for factors like traffic density, maneuverability, and sea state. Option C encapsulates all these requirements, while Option D focuses too narrowly on the stopping distance aspect.