Navigation Rules Flashcards

When two power-driven vessels are crossing and risk of collision exists, which vessel must give way?

Answer: The vessel on the port side of the other

The vessel that has the other on its starboard side is the give-way vessel and must take early action to avoid collision.

What does a vessel's red sidelight indicate to an approaching boat?

Answer: You are approaching from the vessel's port side

A red sidelight is displayed on the port (left) side, so seeing it means you are approaching from that vessel's port side.

A stand-on vessel in a crossing situation should:

Answer: Maintain its course and speed initially

The stand-on vessel must maintain course and speed so the give-way vessel can predict its path and maneuver safely.

What signal does a vessel give when it is about to overtake another vessel on the overtaken vessel's starboard side?

Answer: One short blast

One short blast signals intent to overtake or pass on the port side of the vessel ahead; two short blasts signals overtaking on the starboard side — wait, one blast = overtaking on the overtaken vessel's starboard side per Inland Rules.

In a narrow channel, where should a vessel keep to the extent safe and practicable?

Answer: The starboard side of the channel

Rule 9 requires vessels to keep to the starboard side of a narrow channel to allow safe two-way traffic.

What does the term 'vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver' include?

Answer: A vessel conducting dredging operations

Vessels conducting dredging, surveying, or laying cables are restricted in their ability to maneuver and have special right-of-way status.

When meeting head-on, both power-driven vessels should:

Answer: Both vessels alter course to starboard

In a head-on situation, both vessels must alter course to starboard so they pass port-to-port.