Question 47 RVR05 - Master of LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (a risk of collision exists):** This scenario describes the fundamental principle of Rule 7 (Risk of Collision) of both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules. Specifically, Rule 7(b) states: "Such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change." This is known as Constant Bearing, Decreasing Range (CBDR). When the bearing (the angle from your vessel to the other vessel) remains constant, it means that if the vessels continue their courses and speeds, their paths will intersect at the same point, resulting in a collision. Therefore, a constant bearing of an approaching vessel is the primary indication that a risk of collision exists, requiring immediate action under the Rules. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) a special circumstances situation exists:** "Special circumstances" (Rule 2) refers to situations not explicitly covered by the preceding rules, or when following a rule strictly would lead to immediate danger (e.g., overriding safety necessity). While a risk of collision requires action, it is a standard (not special) circumstance covered by Rules 13-19. * **B) you are the stand-on vessel:** The constancy of the bearing does not determine who is the stand-on vessel. The stand-on/give-way status is determined by the relationship between the two vessels (e.g., overtaking, crossing, head-on) as defined in the steering and sailing rules (Rules 13–17). Regardless of which vessel is stand-on or give-way, the detection of a constant bearing means a risk of collision exists for **both** vessels. * **C) the other vessel is dead in the water:** If the other vessel were dead in the water, its bearing would likely be changing unless you were approaching it directly head-on. Furthermore, even if the other vessel is dead in the water, a constant bearing means you are headed toward it, and therefore, a risk of collision still exists. This option identifies a potential condition of the other vessel but misses the actual implication of the constant bearing measurement.