United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

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When can a stand-on vessel change course and speed?

The stand-on vessel may change course and speed at any time
Only after the give-way vessel sounds one blast
When action by the give-way vessel alone cannot prevent collision
When the two vessels become less than one mile apart

The correct answer is: When action by the give-way vessel alone cannot prevent collision

A stand-on vessel, according to navigational rules, has a responsibility to maintain its course and speed when encountering a give-way vessel. However, the stand-on vessel is not completely restricted from taking action. The key point is that it can change course and speed when it becomes apparent that action by the give-way vessel is insufficient to prevent a collision. This situation emphasizes the need for good seamanship and situational awareness. While the stand-on vessel generally maintains its path to provide predictability to the give-way vessel, it must also monitor the situation closely. If it observes that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision, changing course or speed becomes a critical decision to ensure safe navigation and avoid an incident. Other options suggest conditions that either impose unnecessary limitations on the stand-on vessel or do not align with the fundamental rules governing right-of-way at sea. Thus, understanding when a stand-on vessel can safely alter its course is an essential aspect of maritime navigation and safety.