Question 12 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation of Correct Option (B):** The situation described involves two vessels on crossing courses, where your vessel is the **stand-on vessel** (since the other vessel is on your starboard bow, she is the burdened/give-way vessel under Rule 15). However, the other vessel (the burdened vessel) has sounded **five short blasts**. This signal is the official danger or doubt signal (Rule 34(d)). It indicates that the sounding vessel doubts your intentions or doubts that sufficient action is being taken to avoid collision. When the danger signal is sounded, especially by the vessel that is required to keep clear (the one on your starboard bow), it signifies immediate and serious concern about the risk of collision. Rule 17(c) states that the stand-on vessel (you) must take action to avoid collision if it becomes apparent that the burdened vessel is not taking appropriate action. Crucially, Rule 8 (Action to Avoid Collision) dictates that any action taken must be positive, made in ample time, and result in a readily apparent change in course and/or speed. Therefore, the appropriate action is to address the immediate danger indicated by the five-blast signal. Option B, **"make a large course change, and slow down if necessary,"** is the most positive and effective action. A large course change and/or speed reduction immediately removes the risk of collision, addresses the danger signaled, and satisfies the requirement to take clear, positive action when doubt exists or collision is imminent. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) initiate a passing signal that will allow for a half mile clearance:** This is incorrect because passing signals (one or two short blasts) are used when meeting or overtaking, not usually in crossing situations where the vessels are already committed to a dangerous course. More importantly, initiating a standard passing signal after a danger signal has been sounded does not constitute effective collision avoidance; it merely indicates an intention that may not be safe or agreed upon. The priority is immediate danger avoidance, not proposing a passing arrangement. * **C) reduce speed slightly:** While reducing speed is a good action, doing so only slightly is generally considered inadequate under Rule 8 and Rule 17(c). Action taken to avoid collision must be "positive" and "readily apparent." A "slight" reduction in speed often does not meet this standard, especially when a danger signal has been sounded. * **D) answer the signal and hold course and speed:** Answering the signal with five short blasts is appropriate if you also have doubt, but **holding course and speed** is dangerously incorrect. The danger signal indicates a serious risk of collision, and holding course and speed violates Rule 17(c) and Rule 2 (Responsibility), which mandate immediate action when collision is imminent or doubt exists.