Question 804 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is B) a vessel towing astern. According to the International and Inland Navigation Rules, a vessel towing astern is required to display a yellow light over a white light at night. This configuration of lights indicates that the vessel is engaged in towing operations and helps other vessels identify its status. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) a vessel in distress would display different flashing red, white, or orange lights; C) a vessel engaged in fishing would display different masthead, sidelights, and stern lights; and D) a vessel engaged in piloting would not have a specific light configuration to indicate that activity.