USCG Exam PracticeThree-bearing fix and cocked-hat triangle
A navigator observes that the compass bearing to an approaching vessel remains constant while the range is decreasing. What does this indicate?
- A. The approaching vessel is crossing ahead and will pass clear
- ✓ Risk of collision existsCorrect
- C. A running fix should be computed using the doubling-the-angle method
- D. The approaching vessel is on a reciprocal course and will pass port-to-port
Why B is correct
Bowditch Ch. 7 §704 states that if the compass bearing to an approaching vessel remains constant and the range is decreasing (CBDR), risk of collision exists. A constant bearing alone is the canonical indicator; the decreasing range confirms closure.
Cited:Bowditch Ch. 7 §704