Question 35 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for B (More than two vessels crossing):** Option B, "More than two vessels crossing," is considered a "special circumstance" under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 2 ("Responsibility"). Rule 2(b) states that in construing and complying with the Rules, due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and any *special circumstances*, including the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a departure from the Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger. While the standard crossing rules (Rule 15) deal with two vessels, the interaction of three or more vessels introduces a complexity that the standard rules are not explicitly designed to manage simultaneously. When three or more vessels are involved in a crossing situation, the standard "stand-on" and "give-way" relationship between just two vessels may become ambiguous or insufficient to prevent collision, requiring the mariner to exercise greater judgment and potentially depart from the strict application of the Rules to ensure safety. This unusual, complex scenario constitutes a "special circumstance" under Rule 2. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) Speed in fog:** While speed must be moderated in restricted visibility (Rule 6 and Rule 19), operating at a safe speed in fog is a standard requirement and procedure explicitly covered by the Rules, not a "special circumstance" that permits departure from the Rules. * **C) Two vessels meeting:** This is a fundamental, common encounter explicitly and thoroughly covered by Rule 14 (Head-on situation). It is a standard situation, not a "special circumstance." * **D) Vessel at anchor:** A vessel at anchor is governed by specific rules regarding lights and shapes (Rule 30) and is considered a vessel "not under command" for the purpose of maneuvering responsibility (Rule 3), but this status is standard and explicitly addressed by the COLREGs, not an exceptional "special circumstance."