Question 42 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** According to Rule 27(a) of the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), a vessel that is "not under command" (NUC) must exhibit "two all-round red lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen." This applies to both International and Inland waters. Since the vessel is "underway," it must display the NUC lights to indicate its restricted maneuvering ability. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) a stern light:** A vessel not under command that is also "underway but not making way" (i.e., not moving through the water) is **not** required to exhibit the sidelights or the stern light. Rule 27(a)(iii) specifically states that a NUC vessel "when at anchor, shall not exhibit the lights or shapes required by this Rule." Since the question specifies the vessel is "underway but not making way," Rule 27(a) applies, and 27(a)(ii) specifically exempts the requirement for the standard running lights (including the stern light) when the vessel is not making way. * **C) sidelights:** Similar to the stern light (Option B), a vessel that is "not under command" and is "underway but not making way" is required to display only the two all-round red lights. It is **not** required to display its sidelights (Rule 27(a)(ii)). Sidelights are displayed when the vessel is making way through the water. * **D) All of the above:** This is incorrect because the vessel is "not making way," which exempts it from displaying the standard running lights (sidelights and stern light). Only the specific lights indicating "not under command" are required.