Question 232 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is B) alter course to starboard and pass port to port. According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), which apply to both international and inland waters, when two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on, both vessels are required to alter course to starboard and pass port-to-port. This is to ensure that the vessels safely pass each other on their port sides, reducing the risk of collision. The other options are incorrect because: A) slowing to bare steerageway is not the required action in a head-on situation; C) altering course to port and passing starboard-to-starboard would go against the COLREGS; and D) matching whistle signals is not the correct course of action, as the COLREGS clearly state the required maneuvering in a head-on situation.