PWC PWC Navigation Rules 3

Question 1

What is the required visibility distance for navigation lights on a PWC of less than 12 meters?

Accepted Answer

1 nautical mile for all-around white light

Answer

2 nautical miles for masthead, 1 mile for sidelights

Answer

At least 1 mile for sidelights and 2 miles for white stern light

Answer

Only 0.5 miles is required for small vessels

Question 2

What action must a PWC operator take when encountering a vessel displaying a black ball shape in the daytime?

Accepted Answer

Give way — the vessel is at anchor and not maneuverable for standard navigation

Answer

Give way — the vessel is a sailing craft

Answer

The ball indicates a race in progress — keep clear of the course

Answer

The vessel is fishing — stay 200 feet away

Question 3

Which of the following right-of-way rankings is correct from highest to lowest priority?

Accepted Answer

Vessel not under command > Restricted in ability to maneuver > Sailing vessel > Power vessel

Answer

Power vessel > Sailing vessel > Vessel not under command

Answer

Sailing vessel > Power vessel > Vessel at anchor

Answer

Fishing vessel > All others

Question 4

What does five or more short blasts of a horn indicate?

Accepted Answer

A danger or doubt signal — the operator is unsure of the other vessel's intentions

Answer

The vessel is turning to starboard

Answer

The vessel is entering a marina

Answer

The vessel requests a bridge opening

Question 5

In what situation does the 'inland rules' crossing scenario not apply?

Accepted Answer

When one vessel is overtaking another from astern

Answer

When both vessels are under power

Answer

When one vessel is under sail

Answer

When operating in a channel

Question 6

What does a white buoy with an orange circle and black lettering indicate?

Accepted Answer

Controlled area with specific information or regulations (e.g., speed limit)

Answer

Exclusion zone

Answer

Safe water mark

Answer

Hazard to navigation