Question 26

The Correct Answer is D **Why option D is correct:** The lighting requirements for Great Lakes vessels are governed by the Inland Rules (33 CFR Subchapter E, Part 83), specifically Rule 23 (Power-driven vessels underway). Rule 23(d)(i) of the Inland Rules, which includes the special rules for the Great Lakes (Subpart C, Rule 24), provides an exception for power-driven vessels less than 50 meters in length when operating "INLAND ONLY" on the Great Lakes. This exception states that such a vessel: "may carry an all-round white light in lieu of the second masthead light and stern light." This is a specific provision meant to simplify lighting for smaller vessels operating in this region under the Inland Rules jurisdiction. **Why the other options are incorrect:** **A) Great Lakes vessels are exempted from the requirement to show yellow towing lights.** This is incorrect. Under the Inland Rules (Rule 24), a power-driven vessel when towing must show the required masthead lights (two or three, depending on tow length) and must show a specific set of lights, which includes a **yellow towing light** (an after masthead light), where a stern light would otherwise be shown. The requirement for yellow towing lights is standard in the Inland Rules and applies to Great Lakes vessels. **B) Sidelights for vessels over 50 meters are required to have only a two-mile range of visibility.** This is incorrect. Rule 22 (Visibility of Lights) specifies the minimum luminous ranges. For vessels 50 meters or more in length, the required luminous range for the sidelights is **three miles**, not two miles. Two miles is the requirement for vessels 20 meters or more but less than 50 meters in length. **C) The showing of a forward masthead light is optional for vessels under 150 meters.** This is incorrect. For a power-driven vessel underway (Rule 23), the showing of the forward masthead light is mandatory, regardless of length. The position of the second (after) masthead light, or the need for a second or third light for towing, is what changes based on vessel operation and length, but the forward masthead light is always required.