Question 16 TV01 - Towing Vessels - Oceans or Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Why option C ("navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility") is correct:** The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility), states that this rule applies to vessels **"when navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility."** It is a mandatory requirement that governs vessel operation whenever conditions make visibility poor (e.g., fog, mist, heavy rain, snowstorms, sandstorms). This rule requires all vessels, regardless of their location (both inland and international waters where COLREGs apply), to take precautions, such as proceeding at a safe speed and making appropriate sound signals. 2. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) only if they have operational radar:** This is incorrect because the requirements of Rule 19 apply to *all* vessels. While radar is a critical tool for navigating in restricted visibility, the rules apply even if a vessel does not have radar or if its radar is non-operational. Non-radar-equipped vessels must adhere to the same requirements for speed and sound signals. * **B) in sight of one another in fog:** This is incorrect. If vessels are in sight of one another, they are no longer operating under the specific rules for "Restricted Visibility" (Rule 19). Instead, they would revert to the rules for "Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another" (Rules 11-18), even if the condition causing the restriction (like fog) still exists around them. Rule 19 applies when vessels are primarily detecting others by means other than sight (e.g., radar, sound). * **D) only if they are showing special purpose lights:** This is incorrect. Showing special purpose lights (such as lights for a vessel constrained by its draft or a fishing vessel) relates to a vessel's status or operation, not the environmental conditions that trigger the application of Rule 19. All vessels, regardless of the lights they are showing, must follow the rules for restricted visibility if they are navigating in or near such an area.