Question 25 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is D. **Explanation for D (bare steerageway):** This scenario is governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 19 (Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility). Specifically, Rule 19(e) states: > "A vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters situation with another vessel forward of her beam, **shall reduce her speed to bare steerageway** and if necessary take all her way off and in any event navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision is over." "Bare steerageway" means the minimum speed necessary to keep the vessel under control and steerable, which is the required action when danger is perceived forward of the beam in restricted visibility. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) moderate speed:** While vessels must proceed at a safe speed adjusted to restricted visibility (COLREG Rule 19(b)), once a specific danger (like a fog signal forward of the beam) is identified, the requirement shifts to the more stringent "bare steerageway." Moderate speed is too vague and generally faster than bare steerageway. **B) half speed:** This is a specific reduction but does not satisfy the strict requirement of COLREG Rule 19(e) to proceed at the minimum speed necessary for control (bare steerageway). "Half speed" is often significantly faster than bare steerageway. **C) safe speed:** A vessel must always proceed at a safe speed (COLREG Rule 19(b)). However, "safe speed" is a variable maximum speed; when an immediate danger (fog signal forward of the beam) is heard, the Rule mandates the *minimum* speed, "bare steerageway," rather than just maintaining the existing "safe speed."