Question 10 TV02 - Towing Vessels - Great Lakes and Inland

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Correct Answer):** This scenario is governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 13 (Overtaking) and Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel). 1. **Rule 13 (Overtaking):** Establishes that the vessel being overtaken (Vessel "B" in this case) is the **stand-on vessel**, and the vessel doing the overtaking (Vessel "A") is the **give-way vessel**. 2. **Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel):** Requires the stand-on vessel to **keep her course and speed**. Vessel "B" is the stand-on vessel and must maintain predictable behavior so that Vessel "A" (the give-way vessel) can take appropriate action to pass safely. Therefore, Vessel "B" should hold her course and speed. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) should slow down until vessel "A" has passed:** This is incorrect. Changing speed by slowing down would violate Rule 17, making Vessel "B's" intentions unpredictable and potentially complicating the maneuvering action required of Vessel "A". * **C) may steer various courses and vessel "A" must keep clear:** This is incorrect. While Vessel "A" must keep clear, Vessel "B" must maintain a steady course and speed (Rule 17) to allow Vessel "A" to execute the passing maneuver safely. Steering various courses would create an immediate danger of collision. * **D) should change course to the right:** This is incorrect. As the stand-on vessel, Vessel "B" should maintain her course. Only if collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone (Rule 17(b)) would Vessel "B" be permitted to take action, and that action must be such as will best aid to avoid collision, which does not necessarily mean turning right.