Question 17

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Sidelights and a stern light):** The lighting requirements for vessels being towed are governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 24 (Towing and Pushing) and Rule 23 (Vessels Underway). A vessel being towed, whether it is one vessel or a composite tow, is considered a separate vessel underway. Rule 24 (e) states: "A vessel or object being towed, other than those mentioned in sub-paragraph (g) of this Rule, shall exhibit sidelights and a stern light." Therefore, a single vessel being towed alongside (which is treated the same as a vessel being towed astern for lighting purposes, unless specifically exempted) must show the standard navigation lights of a vessel underway: **sidelights and a stern light**. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) One all-round white light:** This light configuration is typically reserved for small craft (less than 7 meters in length and/or whose speed does not exceed 7 knots) as an alternative to standard navigation lights (Rule 23(d)). It is not the standard requirement for a vessel being towed. * **C) A masthead light, sidelights, and a stern light:** This is the lighting configuration for a power-driven vessel underway (Rule 23(a)). A vessel being towed is not considered a power-driven vessel and must only show sidelights and a stern light, specifically omitting the masthead light(s). * **D) Only the outboard sidelight and a stern light:** While special rules exist for vessels being pushed ahead (Rule 24(c)(ii) might allow only the outboard sidelights), the question specifies a vessel being towed *alongside*. Regardless, Rule 24(e) requires both sidelights (port and starboard) and a stern light for a vessel being towed. Limiting it to only the outboard sidelight is incorrect for standard towing operations.