USCG Exam PracticeVessel documentation and numbering
Under 46 CFR §185.602, when a vessel's draft marks are obscured due to operational constraints or protrusions, what does the regulation require?
- A. The vessel must be drydocked to restore the draft marks before getting underway.
- ✓ The vessel must be fitted with a reliable draft indicating system from which bow and stern drafts can be determined.Correct
- C. The master must estimate drafts by visual inspection and record them in the deck log.
- D. The vessel must have loading marks repainted at amidships only.
Why B is correct
46 CFR §185.602(f) specifically requires that when draft marks are obscured due to operational constraints or protrusions, the vessel must be fitted with a reliable draft indicating system from which bow and stern drafts can be determined. Drydocking, visual estimation, or amidships-only marking are not the regulatory remedy.
Cited:46 CFR §185.602