Question 10

The Correct Answer is B **Why Option B ("should hold her course and speed") is correct:** This scenario is governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 13 (Overtaking) and Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel). 1. **Rule 13 (Overtaking):** Establishes that the vessel being overtaken (Vessel B) is the stand-on vessel, and the vessel overtaking (Vessel A) is the give-way vessel. Vessel A has the duty to keep clear of Vessel B. 2. **Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel):** Requires the stand-on vessel (Vessel B) to **keep her course and speed**. Vessel B must maintain predictability so that Vessel A can execute a safe passing maneuver and meet its obligation to keep clear. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) should slow down until vessel "A" has passed:** This is incorrect because it violates Rule 17. The stand-on vessel must maintain course and speed to allow the give-way vessel to predict her movements and safely pass. Slowing down unexpectedly would create an additional risk of collision. * **C) may steer various courses and vessel "A" must keep clear:** This is incorrect. While Vessel A must keep clear, Vessel B (the stand-on vessel) is specifically required to maintain a predictable course and speed (Rule 17). Steering "various courses" would make the passing maneuver extremely dangerous and unpredictable. * **D) should change course to the right:** This is incorrect. Changing course is an action reserved for the give-way vessel (Vessel A). Vessel B, as the stand-on vessel, must hold course and speed unless collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone (Rule 17(a)(ii)).