Question 20 TV01 - Towing Vessels - Oceans or Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** Option D, "not impede the passage of vessel 'B'," is correct because it directly addresses the obligations of a fishing vessel in a narrow channel when encountering a vessel restricted to the channel (like a large tanker, Vessel "B"). * **Rule 9 (Narrow Channels):** Rule 9(b) states that a vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a **sailing vessel** shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. While a vessel engaged in fishing is not explicitly listed in Rule 9(b), it falls under the general requirement of Rule 9(c), which states that a vessel engaged in fishing shall **not impede the passage of any other vessel navigating in a narrow channel or fairway.** * **Vessel B's Signal:** Vessel "B" sounding five short and rapid blasts is the danger or doubt signal (Rule 34(d)). This signal indicates that Vessel "B" is unsure of Vessel "A's" intentions or is concerned that a collision might occur, likely because Vessel "A" (fishing) appears to be impeding or potentially impeding its passage in the confined space of the channel. * **Required Action:** Since Vessel "A" (fishing) is obligated not to impede Vessel "B" (a large vessel restricted to the channel), the appropriate action is to take steps immediately to ensure Vessel "B" has a clear and safe passage, which aligns with "not impede the passage." **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** **A) maintain course and speed:** This is incorrect. Maintaining course and speed when a large vessel restricted to a narrow channel sounds the danger signal (five blasts) would likely worsen the situation and violate the fishing vessel's obligation not to impede traffic in the channel (Rule 9(c)). **B) not answer the whistle signals from vessel "B":** This is incorrect. While the five-blast signal is not a maneuvering signal requiring a specific whistle response (like one or two short blasts), ignoring the danger signal entirely is irresponsible and unsafe. Furthermore, the vessel must take action to alleviate the danger, which is indicated by the signal. **C) sound one prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This is incorrect. The signal of one prolonged followed by two short blasts is used in restricted visibility (Rule 35) or, in certain circumstances, by a vessel approaching a bend or obstruction (Rule 34(e)). It is **not** the appropriate signal to respond to the danger signal in this scenario, nor does it address the obligation of the fishing vessel not to impede traffic.