FREE Boating Certification Test Navigation Rules Questions and Answers

Question 1

Under the Navigation Rules, what action must a stand-on vessel take when it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision?

Accepted Answer

Take action to avoid collision by its maneuver alone.

Answer

Maintain course and speed, even if a collision is imminent.

Answer

Signal its intentions with five short blasts of the whistle and wait for a response.

Answer

Immediately reverse engines and sound three short blasts.

Question 2

You are operating a power-driven vessel and observe another power-driven vessel approaching from your starboard side, showing its red sidelight. What is your responsibility under the Navigation Rules?

Accepted Answer

You are the give-way vessel and must take early and substantial action to keep clear.

Answer

You are the stand-on vessel and should maintain your course and speed.

Answer

You should signal with one short blast and turn to starboard.

Answer

You should sound five short blasts to indicate disagreement with the other vessel's intentions.

Question 3

Which of the following vessels is considered 'restricted in her ability to maneuver' under the Navigation Rules?

Accepted Answer

A vessel engaged in fishing with nets that restrict its maneuverability.

Answer

A sailing vessel under sail alone.

Answer

A power-driven vessel underway with engines operational.

Answer

A vessel constrained by its draft in a narrow channel.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of navigation lights on vessels during periods of restricted visibility or between sunset and sunrise?

Accepted Answer

To indicate the vessel's presence, type, and relative direction of movement.

Answer

To illuminate the vessel's deck for crew activities.

Answer

To indicate the vessel's exact speed and engine status.

Answer

To serve as decorative lighting for aesthetic appeal.

Question 5

When is a 'risk of collision' deemed to exist according to the Navigation Rules?

Accepted Answer

If the compass bearing of an approaching vessel remains constant while its range decreases.

Answer

Only when vessels are within 100 yards of each other.

Answer

When both vessels are maintaining a steady course and speed.

Answer

Only if both vessels are power-driven and heading directly towards each other.

Question 6

A power-driven vessel is overtaking another power-driven vessel in a narrow channel. Which statement correctly describes the responsibilities?

Accepted Answer

The vessel being overtaken is the stand-on vessel and must maintain course and speed, while the overtaking vessel is the give-way vessel.

Answer

The overtaken vessel must always alter course to port to allow passage.

Answer

The overtaking vessel is the stand-on vessel and may proceed without signaling.

Answer

Both vessels must stop and wait for a clear signal from a third party.