Question 23 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Why option C ("a vessel of special construction") is correct:** This exception is found in both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules. Rule 21(a) (Definitions) and Rule 3(j) (General Definitions) must be read in conjunction with the placement rules (Rule 21(a)(i) for the masthead light definition, and Rule 22/Annex I Section 2(a) for light placement specifics). Critically, **Annex I, Section 3(b)** (which applies to both International and Inland Rules regarding positioning and technical details of lights and shapes) states that the masthead light shall be placed on the fore and aft centerline, *except* where it is impracticable for a **vessel of special construction or purpose**, in which case the masthead light(s) shall be placed as nearly as possible to the fore and aft centerline. 2. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) a vessel engaged in trolling:** While a vessel engaged in fishing (including trolling) displays specific lights (Rule 26), the placement rules regarding the masthead light being on the centerline (Annex I) are general rules that apply unless a specific exception (like special construction) is met. Simply being engaged in trolling does not grant an automatic exception for displacing the masthead light. * **B) a power-driven vessel 12 meters in length:** A small power-driven vessel of 12 meters must still adhere to the general placement requirements of Annex I, Section 3(b). There is no provision in COLREGs or the Inland Rules that automatically allows displacement of the masthead light solely based on being under 20 meters or under 12 meters in length. * **D) an air-cushion vessel in non-displacement mode:** An air-cushion vessel (ACV) when operating in non-displacement mode must display specific identification lights (Rule 23(b)). However, this requirement is *additional* to the standard masthead light, and it does not waive the requirement that the main masthead light, if carried, must be placed on the centerline unless the vessel meets the "special construction" standard.