Question 15

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for A (A seaplane):** Rule 18 (Responsibilities between vessels) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules establishes a hierarchy of vessels regarding who must keep out of the way. In the context of a power-driven vessel, the following vessels are generally required to keep out of its way: * **A power-driven vessel must keep out of the way of:** * A vessel not under command (NUC) * A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM) * A vessel engaged in fishing * A sailing vessel The list implies that a vessel not explicitly listed as having right-of-way over a power-driven vessel must typically keep clear. Rule 3 defines a "vessel" to include water craft of every description, including non-displacement craft and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. However, Rule 18(d) specifically states that a seaplane on the water shall, in general, keep clear of all vessels and avoid impeding their navigation. Therefore, a seaplane is the vessel on this list that must not impede the navigation of a power-driven vessel. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **B) A sailing vessel:** Rule 18(a)(iv) states that a power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of a sailing vessel. Therefore, a sailing vessel does not need to impede the power-driven vessel's navigation; the power-driven vessel must keep clear. * **C) A vessel not under command:** Rule 18(a)(i) states that a power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of a vessel not under command (NUC). An NUC is higher in the hierarchy and has the right-of-way over a power-driven vessel. * **D) A vessel engaged in fishing:** Rule 18(a)(iii) states that a power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of a vessel engaged in fishing. A vessel engaged in fishing is higher in the hierarchy and has the right-of-way over a power-driven vessel.