Question 17

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for B (Sidelights and a stern light):** The lighting requirements for vessels being towed are governed by Rule 24(g) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Rule 24(g) states that a vessel or object being towed (other than those specified in paragraph (i) of this Rule, which covers certain submerged objects) shall exhibit **sidelights and a stern light**. This requirement applies regardless of whether the vessel is being towed astern or alongside. Therefore, a single vessel being towed alongside must show sidelights and a stern light. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) One all-round white light:** This light configuration is specified for small, unmanned vessels or objects being towed (Rule 24(i)) or for certain very small fishing/sailing vessels (Rule 25(d)). A vessel being towed alongside, which is typically of a size requiring standard lights, does not use this configuration under Rule 24(g). * **C) A masthead light, sidelights, and a stern light:** A masthead light is typically shown by a power-driven vessel underway (Rule 23). A vessel being towed is not considered "power-driven underway" for lighting purposes under Rule 23; it is covered specifically by the towing rules (Rule 24), which only require sidelights and a stern light. * **D) Only the outboard sidelight and a stern light:** While a vessel being pushed ahead as a composite unit may only show the outboard sidelights (Rule 24(f)), a vessel being towed alongside (a separate entity required to comply with Rule 24(g)) must show *both* sidelights and a stern light to clearly indicate its presence and heading to approaching vessels from all relevant angles.