United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

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Study for the United States Coast Guard Captains License Test. Prepare with quizzes including detailed explanations and hints for each question. Get ready for your exam!

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If a stand-on vessel needs to take action to avoid collision, what should it NOT do, if possible?

Decrease speed
Increase speed
Turn to port for a vessel on her own port side
Turn to starboard for a vessel on her own port side

The correct answer is: Turn to port for a vessel on her own port side

In the context of navigation rules, the stand-on vessel is the one that is required to maintain its course and speed until it becomes evident that a collision cannot be avoided. When a stand-on vessel finds itself in a situation where it does need to take action to prevent a collision, it should generally do so in a way that minimizes confusion or unpredictable maneuvers. Turning to port for a vessel on her own port side can create uncertainty for the other vessel. The vessel may not expect the stand-on vessel to alter its course in that direction, and this could lead to miscommunication or misinterpretation of the vessels' respective intentions, increasing the risk of collision. The best practice is for the stand-on vessel to take an action that is clear and predictable, such as turning to starboard. By understanding the consequences of navigational decisions, the stand-on vessel can make safer choices that help avoid collisions while adhering to the rules of navigation and maintaining clarity in its maneuvers.