Question 24

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation of why option A is correct:** Option A is correct because it directly reflects the exception provided in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) for certain specialized vessels, specifically those operating under the restrictions of their design, such as Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft. Rule 23(b) and the related annexes acknowledge that due to the high-speed nature and unique construction of WIG craft, the prescribed vertical spacing requirements (Rule 3(l) defines a WIG craft and Annex I, section 3(a) sets the spacing requirements) may be impossible to achieve. In such cases, Annex I, Section 3(b) states that the lights for these vessels must be positioned as closely as possible to the requirements, and the vessel's government is responsible for determining the closest practical compliance. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) An all-round light should be substituted for the after-masthead light and the stern light.** This suggestion is incorrect and contradicts the lighting scheme required for a power-driven vessel (Rule 23). While some small vessels or specific craft (like air cushion vehicles) have alternative light arrangements, substituting an after-masthead light and a stern light with a single all-round light is not the prescribed solution for a WIG craft that cannot meet spacing requirements. The WIG must still display masthead lights forward and aft, even if their spacing is compromised. * **C) The WIG must carry only the lights that comply with the rules; the others may be omitted.** This is incorrect. Rule 23 requires a WIG craft to display specific lights (masthead lights, sidelights, stern light). Omitting mandatory lights is a severe violation of COLREGs and would compromise safety. The requirement is to comply as closely as possible, not to omit lights that cannot achieve perfect spacing. * **D) The WIG must be altered to permit full compliance with the rules.** This is incorrect because the premise of the question is that the WIG craft *cannot* comply due to its fundamental design (operating very close to the surface, which restricts the achievable height and spacing of lights). COLREGs Rule 23(b) and Annex I specifically provide an exception for vessels, like WIG craft, where structural constraints prevent full compliance, meaning alteration to achieve *full* compliance is not required if practically impossible.