Question 2

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C ("white stern light") is correct: 1. **Context of the Scenario:** The scenario describes Vessel "A" (the overtaking vessel) passing Vessel "B" (the vessel being overtaken) without changing course. 2. **Definition of Overtaking:** An overtaking situation, according to the COLREGs (Rules of the Road), occurs when one vessel approaches another from an arc of 135 degrees astern of the vessel's heading (i.e., when the overtaking vessel is in a position to see only the stern light of the vessel being overtaken). 3. **Visibility of Lights (Vessel B's Perspective):** Vessel "B" is the vessel being overtaken. When viewed directly from astern, the only required navigation light visible on Vessel "B" is the **white stern light**. 4. **Conclusion:** Since Vessel "A" is positioned directly astern of Vessel "B" in the act of overtaking, Vessel "A" will observe the **white stern light** of Vessel "B". ### Why the other options are incorrect: * **A) green sidelight:** The green sidelight covers an arc from ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on the starboard (right) side. If Vessel "A" could see Vessel "B's" green sidelight, the situation would be a crossing or meeting situation, or Vessel "A" would be overtaking from the starboard quarter, but the initial phase of the overtake requires viewing the stern light. If A is overtaking and passing without changing course, A is still primarily in the arc where only the stern light is visible. * **B) yellow towing light:** A yellow towing light is carried instead of a second masthead light and is only required for vessels engaged in towing. There is no information provided to suggest that Vessel "B" is engaged in towing, so it is assumed to be displaying standard running lights. * **D) None of the above:** Since the white stern light is the correct light to observe in a direct overtaking situation, this option is incorrect.