Question 10

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Correct Answer):** 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. **Overtaking Situation (Rule 13):** Vessel "A" is the overtaking vessel (the give-way vessel), and vessel "B" is the vessel being overtaken (the stand-on vessel). The rule states that any vessel overtaking another shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken. 2. **Action by Stand-on Vessel (Rule 17):** In situations where one vessel is required to keep out of the way (the give-way vessel), the other vessel (the stand-on vessel, which is Vessel "B") is required to **keep her course and speed**. This ensures that the give-way vessel (Vessel "A") can accurately predict the stand-on vessel's movement and take timely, effective action to pass safely. Therefore, Vessel "B" should hold her course and speed. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) should slow down until vessel "A" has passed:** This is incorrect. Vessel "B" is the stand-on vessel and must maintain course and speed. Slowing down would confuse the give-way vessel ("A") and violate Rule 17, potentially creating a dangerous close-quarters situation. * **C) may steer various courses and vessel "A" must keep clear:** This is incorrect. The stand-on vessel's duty is to maintain a predictable course and speed. Steering "various courses" would make it impossible for vessel "A" to keep clear effectively and is explicitly forbidden by Rule 17. (Rule 17(a)(ii) allows the stand-on vessel to act only if the give-way vessel's action alone is insufficient.) * **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" must maintain course and speed unless collision cannot be avoided by the action of vessel "A" alone (Rule 17(b)).