Question 20 UFV02 - Mate - Uninspected Fishing Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for D (not impede the passage of vessel "B"):** Vessel "A" is engaged in fishing, making it a "vessel engaged in fishing" under the Rules. Vessel "B" is a large tanker proceeding in a narrow channel. 1. **Narrow Channel Rule (Rule 9):** Rule 9(b) states that a vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway. While fishing vessels are generally granted special status, Rule 9(c) specifically addresses vessels engaged in fishing: "A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other vessel navigating in a narrow channel or fairway." 2. **Whistle Signals (Rule 34(d)):** Vessel "B" sounds five short and rapid blasts, which is the danger or doubt signal. This signal indicates that Vessel "B" believes Vessel "A" is taking insufficient action or creating a dangerous situation, likely by impeding "B's" safe passage in the channel. 3. **Action Required:** Given Rule 9(c), Vessel "A" (the fishing vessel) has a positive obligation not to impede the passage of Vessel "B" (the tanker). Upon hearing the danger signal, Vessel "A" must immediately take appropriate action (such as moving out of the way, stopping, or slowing down) to ensure Vessel "B" can proceed safely. Therefore, the required action is to **not impede the passage of vessel "B"**. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) maintain course and speed:** This is incorrect. Vessel "A" is obligated not to impede Vessel "B" in the narrow channel. Maintaining course and speed, especially after receiving a danger signal, would violate Rule 9(c) and likely lead to a dangerous situation. * **B) not answer the whistle signals from vessel "B":** This is incorrect. While the five-short-blast signal is not a proposing maneuver that requires a standard response (like one or two short blasts), ignoring a danger signal indicating a potential collision or violation of the rules is highly unsafe and non-compliant with the spirit of the COLREGs. Vessel "A" must acknowledge the situation by taking immediate action (Option D). * **C) sound one prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This signal indicates "I am a power-driven vessel towing" (Rule 35(c), sound in restricted visibility) or is the signal for a vessel "engaged in fishing" when anchored outside the narrow channel boundary (Inland Rule 24(f)), neither of which is relevant here. Furthermore, this specific signal is never used as a response to the five-short-blast danger signal.