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USCG Exam PracticeRule 12 — Sailing Vessels

A sailing vessel with the wind on her port side observes another sailing vessel to windward but cannot determine with certainty whether that vessel has the wind on her port or starboard side. What action is required of the port-wind vessel?

  1. A. She may maintain course and speed until the other vessel's tack is confirmed
  2. She shall keep out of the way of the other vesselCorrect
  3. C. She shall sound one short blast and alter course to starboard
  4. D. She shall exhibit a conical shape to indicate her uncertainty

Why B is correct

33 CFR §83.12(a)(iii) specifically addresses this scenario: a vessel with the wind on the port side that cannot determine the other vessel's tack shall keep out of the way of the other vessel. No sound signal or shape is prescribed for this situation under Rule 12.

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A sailing vessel with the wind on her port side observes another sa… — USCG Exam Practice · CaptainsGround