Question 5 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is A. ### Explanation for Correct Option (A) Option A is correct because it directly reflects the rules governing passing situations in specific inland waters (Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or designated waters) when a current is present. According to 33 U.S.C. § 2034 Rule 34(b) of the Inland Rules, concerning passing signals: > "When power-driven vessels are meeting or crossing at a distance within half a mile and there is a current, the vessel **downbound with a following current** shall propose the maneuver and shall initiate the required whistle signals..." The vessel downbound with a following current has greater difficulty in maneuvering and stopping quickly compared to a vessel stemming the current. Therefore, the rules assign the responsibility for initiating the passing arrangement to the less maneuverable vessel (the downbound vessel). ### Explanations for Incorrect Options **B) Either vessel** This is incorrect because the Inland Rules specifically designate which vessel must initiate the signal when a current is present. The responsibility is not shared equally or interchangeable. **C) The vessel going upstream stemming the current** This is incorrect. The vessel stemming the current (going upstream) has greater control and is easier to maneuver and stop. Because of this superior maneuverability, the rules assign the responsibility for initiating the signal to the less controllable vessel, which is the vessel downbound with a following current (Option A). **D) The vessel that is towing regardless of the current** This is incorrect. While towing vessels often have specific rights and responsibilities, the Inland Rules mandate that when a current is a factor in a meeting situation, the determining factor for initiating the signal is the vessel's direction relative to the current (downbound/following current), not whether the vessel is towing.