United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

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Study for the United States Coast Guard Captains License Test with engaging flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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If a vessel is on your port side, what is the preferred action if both vessels are under way?

Speed up to assert right of way
Turn towards the port side
Maintain course and speed
Turn towards the starboard side

The correct answer is: Maintain course and speed

When a vessel is on your port side and both vessels are underway, the preferred action is to maintain your course and speed. This is in accordance with the 'Rules of the Road,' which outline navigation rules to prevent collision at sea. The reason maintaining course and speed is preferable is that it provides predictability in your navigation. By keeping a steady course, other vessels will be able to anticipate your movements, reducing the chances of confusion and potential collision. It's important to understand that when a vessel is on your port side, you are the stand-on vessel. This means that you have the right of way, and the responsibility to continue your navigation as long as safe to do so. In contrast, changing speed or course unpredictably can lead to misunderstandings between vessels, increasing the risk of an incident. Other options, such as speeding up or turning towards the port side, may create situations where the either vessel might misinterpret the actions of the other, leading to potential collisions. Meanwhile, turning towards the starboard side could also compromise your ability to maintain the safe passage of the vessel on your port side. Therefore, maintaining your course and speed is the best action to take in this scenario.