Question 30 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation of Correct Option (C) **Why Option C is correct:** The scenario describes a vessel underway in reduced visibility hearing the fog signal of another vessel forward of the beam (specifically, $30^\circ$ on the starboard bow). The governing rule is Rule 19(d) (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility). Rule 19(d) states: > "A vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close quarter situation with another vessel forward of her beam, **shall reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course** and, if necessary, take all way off and in any event navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision is over." Therefore, the primary and required action in this situation, especially if danger of collision exists, is to reduce speed to the minimum steerageway. ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **A) Alter course to port and pass the other vessel on its port side:** This action is generally prohibited in restricted visibility when hearing a signal forward of the beam. Rule 19(e) explicitly warns against making a hard alteration of course to port for a vessel sighted or heard forward of the beam. This action increases the risk by crossing the other vessel's path. **B) Alter course to starboard to pass around the other vessel's stern:** While altering course to starboard is generally preferred over port when action is taken, Rule 19(d) dictates the immediate action must be speed reduction. Furthermore, Rule 19(e) advises against making *any* alteration of course or speed until the danger is fully ascertained, unless it is determined that collision will otherwise be avoided. A definite course alteration is premature and prohibited as the immediate required action. **D) Slow your engines and let the other vessel pass ahead of you:** This option is related to Rule 19(d) but is less precise and less comprehensive than option C. Rule 19(d) mandates reducing speed specifically "to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course." Simply "slowing engines" may or may not meet this requirement, and "let the other vessel pass ahead of you" implies an established collision avoidance scenario (like crossing rules), which is not applied in reduced visibility where the exact position and course of the other vessel are unknown. Option C is the direct, required action specified by the Rules.