USCG Exam PracticeThree-bearing fix and cocked-hat triangle
The cocked hat formed by a three-bearing fix lies partially over a charted shoal. Where should the navigator assume the vessel's position to be?
- ✓ At the corner of the triangle nearest the shoalCorrect
- B. At the geometric centre of the triangle
- C. At the corner of the triangle farthest from the shoal
- D. At the intersection of the two most reliable LOPs, ignoring the third
Why A is correct
When the cocked hat lies near a hazard, the corner of the triangle nearest the danger is assumed for safety. This conservative practice ensures the navigator does not underestimate proximity to the hazard. (Bowditch Ch. 7 §705)
Cited:Bowditch Ch. 7 §705