AB Rules of the Road & Maritime Regulations

Question 1

What does a red navigational light indicate at night?

Accepted Answer

Port side

Answer

According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), a vessel's port (left) side is indicated by a red navigational sidelight. This helps other vessels determine the direction of travel and avoid collisions at night.

Question 2

What is the purpose of COLREGs?

Accepted Answer

Prevent collisions

Answer

COLREGs, or the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, are a set of international rules governing the conduct of vessels to prevent collisions. They cover aspects like right-of-way, lights, shapes, and sound signals, ensuring safe navigation worldwide.

Question 3

What signal indicates a vessel is altering course to starboard?

Accepted Answer

One short blast

Answer

According to COLREGs, a power-driven vessel making way in sight of another vessel signals its intention to alter course to starboard (right) by sounding one short blast on its whistle. This audible signal communicates the maneuver to nearby vessels, preventing misunderstandings and collisions.

Question 4

What does a single white light visible all around mean?

Accepted Answer

Anchored vessel

Answer

According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), a single white light visible all around the horizon is the designated signal for a vessel at anchor. This light is typically displayed at the forward part of the vessel, indicating its stationary position to other vessels, especially during nighttime or restricted visibility.

Question 5

Who has right of way in a crossing situation?

Accepted Answer

Starboard-side vessel

Answer

In a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels, COLREGs Rule 15 dictates that the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way. This means the vessel approaching from the starboard side is the stand-on vessel and has the right of way. The other vessel, the give-way vessel, must take early and substantial action to avoid collision.

(AB) Able Seaman Exam Practice Test

(AB) Able Seaman Exam Practice Test

AB Rules of the Road & Maritime Regulations