Traffic Situation Briefing

What does it mean if a vessel is "overtaking on the starboard quarter"?

• It is approaching from directly ahead on the right.

• It is passing your vessel from behind on the right side.

• It is turning to starboard in front of your vessel.

• It is crossing from your port side.

Answer explanation

"Starboard quarter" means the rear-right side of your vessel. "Overtaking" means the vessel is coming from behind and passing.

If a vessel is on an opposite course and bearing is constant, what does this indicate?

• The vessel is altering course away from you.

• There is no risk of collision.

• There may be a risk of collision.

• The vessel is overtaking you.

Answer explanation

A constant bearing with decreasing range suggests a possible collision course.

A vessel is crossing from your port side but has not given way yet. According to COLREGs, what should you be prepared to do?

• Ignore it, because you have right of way.

• Increase speed and pass ahead.

• Be ready to take avoiding action if necessary.

• Stop the vessel immediately.

Answer explanation

If the give-way vessel (port side) doesn't act, the stand-on vessel must be ready to avoid collision.

A vessel crossing from starboard means you are the stand-on vessel and must maintain course and speed.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Under COLREGs Rule 15, if a vessel is crossing from your starboard, you must give way.

What does "CPA" stand for in marine navigation?

• Course Plotting Algorithm

• Collision Prevention Angle

• Closest Point of Approach

• Constant Position Assessment

Answer explanation

CPA is the closest distance your ship and another will get to each other if both maintain current courses and speeds.

If the bearing to a vessel remains at 315 degrees over time, what does this mean?

• The vessel is overtaking you.

• It is turning away from you.

• Its relative position is not changing – potential collision.

• The vessel is fishing.

Answer explanation

A constant bearing can mean you're on a collision course if the distance is closing.

What should you do if a vessel appears suddenly on radar with a CPA of less than 1 mile?

• Turn off the radar to reset it.

• Ignore it if you're the bigger vessel.

• Call the Master immediately.

• Increase speed to pass ahead.

Answer explanation

A CPA of less than 1.0 mile requires attention. The Master must be notified according to standard watchkeeping procedures.

Fishing boats are not considered dangerous targets because they move slowly.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Fishing boats can change course unpredictably and often work in groups, which makes them potentially dangerous even at low speeds.

If a vessel will pass 0.8 NM astern, what does it mean?

• It will cross ahead dangerously.

• It will pass safely behind your vessel.

• It is heading directly toward you.

• It will overtake you on the port side.

Answer explanation

"Astern" means behind. 0.8 NM is a safe passing distance.

What action is required when “altering course to give way”?

• Slightly turning to port.

• Taking no action and waiting.

• Making a clear, early, and substantial course change.

• Slowing down only.

Answer explanation

COLREGs require a clear and early alteration to avoid misunderstanding and collision.