Question 37 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why option D ("You must keep out of the way of the other vessel.") is correct:** This scenario describes two power-driven vessels meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses ("dead ahead on a meeting course"). However, the question specifies that both vessels are *sailing vessels*. When two sailing vessels are meeting, Rule 12 (Sailing Vessels) of the COLREGs applies. Rule 12(a)(i) states that when two sailing vessels have the wind on different sides, the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other. The description states: "You are under sail... The apparent wind is broad on the port beam at 10 knots." * **Your vessel (Vessel 1):** The wind is coming from the port side (port beam). Therefore, you are the **port tack vessel**. * **The other vessel (Vessel 2):** Since you see the vessel dead ahead, it is highly probable that it is on a starboard tack, or even if it is on port tack, the rules prioritize your action as the port tack vessel. Since you are the vessel with the wind on your port side (port tack vessel), Rule 12(a)(i) requires **you** to keep out of the way of the other vessel. Therefore, option D is correct. *Note: If both vessels were power-driven and meeting head-on, Rule 14 would apply, requiring both vessels to alter course to starboard, making them both stand-on, which is not the case here.* **Why the other options are incorrect:** A) **You are only required to maneuver if collision cannot be avoided by maneuver of the other vessel.** This is incorrect. This statement describes the requirement for a stand-on vessel (Rule 17(b)). Since you are the port tack vessel, you are the give-way vessel (Rule 12) and must take early and substantial action to keep clear, regardless of the action of the other vessel. B) **Both vessels must maneuver to avoid collision.** This is incorrect. In any crossing, meeting, or overtaking situation between two sailing vessels (or any two vessels under way), one vessel is designated the stand-on vessel and the other the give-way vessel, unless Rule 14 (Head-on - requiring both to turn to starboard) applies, but Rule 14 is specifically superseded by the requirements of Rule 12 for sailing vessels. Rule 12 clearly designates the port-tack vessel (you) as the give-way vessel. C) **Only the other vessel must maneuver to avoid collision.** This is incorrect. The other vessel, having the wind on its starboard side (or being treated as such under Rule 12), is the stand-on vessel and must maintain its course and speed (Rule 17(a)(i)). You are the give-way vessel.