Question 32

The Correct Answer is A. ### Why Option A ("not under command") is Correct The illustration D084RR (which depicts a vessel exhibiting the lights for a vessel **not under command**) shows the following configuration: 1. **Two all-round red lights displayed one vertically over the other.** According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) Rule 27(a) and the Inland Rules equivalent: * A vessel **not under command (NUC)**—meaning she is unable to maneuver as required by the Rules due to some exceptional circumstance—must exhibit **two all-round red lights** in a vertical line where they can best be seen. * If the vessel is making way through the water, she must also exhibit sidelights and a sternlight. If she is stopped, she exhibits only the two red lights. The lights described (two vertical all-round red lights) are the defining characteristic signal for a vessel **not under command** for both International and Inland application. ### Why the Other Options Are Incorrect **B) showing improper lights:** While a vessel could be showing improper lights, the configuration of two vertical all-round red lights is a standard, defined signal under the Rules. Therefore, the lights themselves are proper and clearly define a specific status (Not Under Command). **C) dredging:** A vessel engaged in **dredging** (or underwater operations) exhibits: * Three all-round lights in a vertical line: Red-White-Red. * When restricted in ability to maneuver by the operation, she also shows the standard masthead lights, sidelights, and sternlight (if over 50 meters). This signal (R-W-R) is distinct from the two vertical red lights (R-R) shown by the NUC vessel. **D) towing:** A vessel engaged in **towing** exhibits: * Two or three masthead lights in a vertical line (depending on the length of the tow). * Standard sidelights and sternlight. * A vertical yellow over white light at the stern (the towing light). This combination of lights is entirely different from the two vertical all-round red lights.