Question 24 UFV01 - Master - Uninspected Fishing Vessels

The Correct Answer is A Option A ("The WIG's lights must comply as closely as possible, as determined by her government.") is correct because this specific exemption is provided in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Annex I, Section 3(a). This section addresses the unique structural constraints of certain vessels, specifically ekranoplanes (WIG craft). Due to their operational characteristics and design (flying very close to the surface), it may be impossible for WIG craft to meet the exact height and spacing requirements for lights mandated by the rules. The regulation allows such vessels to comply with the rules "as closely as possible," provided that the decision on compliance is made and certified by the government under whose flag the vessel is operating. Option B is incorrect. Substituting an all-round light for a combination of the after-masthead light and stern light is not the prescribed solution for WIG craft spacing issues. While some vessels (like those under 12 meters) have simplified lighting, WIG craft require compliance as close as possible to the standard masthead/stern light configuration. Option C is incorrect. A vessel cannot simply omit lights that do not comply. The COLREGs require specific lights to be shown for identification and collision avoidance. Omitting lights would violate the fundamental safety principles of the rules. The requirement is to comply *as closely as possible*, not to omit non-compliant lights. Option D is incorrect. While full compliance is generally required, this option fails to recognize the inherent structural limitations of specialized craft like WIG craft. The international regulations provide a specific, structured exemption for these vessels because alteration to permit full compliance (e.g., raising masthead lights significantly) would often compromise the primary function or safety of the craft itself.