Question 25 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why Option D ("bare steerageway") is correct:** This scenario is governed by Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea (COLREGs). Specifically, Rule 19(e) states the action required when a vessel hears a fog signal forward of the beam and the risk of collision has not been determined or cannot be avoided. The rule mandates that, in such circumstances, the vessel "shall reduce her speed to a **minimum** at which she can be kept on her course." This operational minimum speed is commonly referred to as **bare steerageway**, which is the lowest speed at which the rudder remains effective enough to maintain control and course. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) moderate speed:** While vessels must proceed at a safe speed appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility (Rule 19(b)), "moderate speed" is a vague term and is not the required action when a danger signal is heard forward of the beam. The requirement is to reduce speed to the absolute minimum necessary for control. * **B) half speed:** Reducing speed to half is insufficient and too fast. The rule demands reducing speed to the minimum necessary for control (bare steerageway), not merely a fraction of the current speed. * **C) safe speed:** Although all vessels must maintain a "safe speed" at all times (Rule 6 and Rule 19(b)), when a vessel detects another forward of the beam in restricted visibility and risk is not determined, the specific, mandatory action is to reduce speed to bare steerageway, which is a greater reduction than simply maintaining a general "safe speed."