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. **Rule 13 (Overtaking):** Establishes that the vessel being overtaken (Vessel B in this case) is the **Stand-on Vessel** and the vessel overtaking (Vessel A) is the **Give-way Vessel**. The overtaking vessel must keep clear of the vessel being overtaken. 2. **Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel):** Stipulates that the Stand-on Vessel (Vessel B) "shall keep her course and speed." This provides the Give-way Vessel (Vessel A) with the necessary stable parameters to safely execute the passing maneuver and keep clear. Therefore, Vessel B must maintain her current course and speed. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) should slow down until vessel "A" has passed:** This is incorrect. Changing speed (slowing down) would violate Rule 17. By changing speed, Vessel B creates uncertainty for Vessel A, making it harder for Vessel A to determine the relative motion and safely pass. * **C) may steer various courses and vessel "A" must keep clear:** This is incorrect. Changing course would violate Rule 17. The Stand-on vessel must maintain a predictable course and speed. Allowing Vessel B to steer "various courses" would directly contradict the fundamental principle of collision avoidance, which requires the stand-on vessel to maintain predictability. * **D) should change course to the right:** This is incorrect. While changing course to the right might seem helpful, it is a change in course and therefore violates the requirement for the stand-on vessel to maintain course and speed (Rule 17). Only in the immediate approach of a collision (when collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone) is the stand-on vessel allowed, and then required, to take action (which typically involves turning to starboard/right for maximum effect, Rule 17(b)). However, in a normal overtaking situation, Vessel B's primary duty is to hold course and speed.