Question 1531Navigation General

The correct answer is A) heading. The heading of a vessel refers to the direction the vessel is pointed or aimed at any given time. This is the direction the bow of the vessel is facing, regardless of the vessel's actual movement or course over the ground. The heading is determined by the vessel's compass and is an important factor in navigation and safe maneuvering. The other options are incorrect because: B) Course refers to the intended direction of travel. C) Track refers to the actual path the vessel has taken over the ground. D) Course over the ground refers to the direction the vessel is actually moving over the surface of the water.