Question 15

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for A (Neither vessel is the stand-on vessel.) being correct:** The scenario described involves two vessels crossing in Restricted Visibility (fog) and **NOT** in sight of one another, where the risk of collision exists. The rules governing vessels in sight of one another (Rules 11-18) do not apply when visibility is restricted and vessels are detected solely by hearing or radar. In this specific situation, Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility) applies. Rule 19 requires that when a vessel hears the fog signal of another vessel apparently forward of her beam and determines that a close-quarters situation exists or that the risk of collision exists, she must reduce her speed to bare steerageway or, if necessary, take all way off. Most importantly, **Rule 19 does not establish 'stand-on' and 'give-way' roles.** Instead, it mandates that both vessels take appropriate action to avoid collision, which usually means reducing speed and avoiding alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam. Therefore, neither vessel is designated the stand-on vessel; both are responsible for taking avoiding action. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) The vessel which hears the other vessel's fog signal first:** The timing of hearing a signal does not determine navigational roles (stand-on/give-way) under Rule 19. Both vessels are equally responsible for taking action. * **C) The vessel which has the other on her own starboard side:** This is the definition of the give-way vessel in a crossing situation *when vessels are in sight of one another* (Rule 15). This rule does not apply in restricted visibility when vessels are not in sight (Rule 19). * **D) The vessel which has the other on her own port side:** This is the definition of the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation *when vessels are in sight of one another* (Rule 15). This rule does not apply in restricted visibility when vessels are not in sight (Rule 19).