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NSW PWC Licence Knowledge Test study materials
NSW PWC Licence Knowledge Test study resources

NSW PWC Licence Knowledge Test practice questions

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Question 1PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

In NSW, what is the minimum age at which a person may apply for a personal watercraft (PWC) licence?

  1. 12 years
  2. 16 years Correct answer.
  3. 14 years
  4. 18 years

Explanation

A PWC licence in NSW is issued only to people who are at least 16 years old. Younger applicants cannot hold the licence even if supervised by an adult. Age is checked when the licence application and knowledge test are processed.

Question 2PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

What must a person do to legally operate a PWC on NSW waters?

  1. Carry a written parental consent note
  2. Complete a first aid certificate
  3. Hold a PWC licence or a licence endorsed for PWC use Correct answer.
  4. Hold a current general boat driving licence only

Explanation

Operating a PWC requires a specific PWC licence, or a boat driving licence that carries a PWC endorsement. A general boat driving licence alone does not authorise PWC use in NSW. The licence must be carried and produced on request.

Question 3PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

Which document must a PWC operator produce if asked by an authorised officer?

  1. A recent photograph of the vessel
  2. The current PWC licence Correct answer.
  3. A receipt for fuel purchases
  4. A statutory declaration of ownership

Explanation

Authorised officers can require the operator to produce their PWC licence for inspection. The licence shows the holder is permitted to operate the craft. Failure to produce it when requested can result in penalties.

Question 4PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

What is the general purpose of registering a PWC in NSW?

  1. To determine the vessel's maximum speed
  2. To certify the operator's first aid skills
  3. To identify the vessel and link it to its registered operator Correct answer.
  4. To record the vessel's fuel efficiency

Explanation

Registration identifies a vessel through its registration number and links it to a responsible registered operator. It allows authorities to trace the craft if it is involved in an incident or enforcement matter. Registration does not certify performance or operator skills.

Question 5PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC is being used on a NSW waterway. How should the registration number be displayed?

  1. Displayed only when operating at night
  2. Only on the trailer used to launch it
  3. Clearly on both sides of the hull as required Correct answer.
  4. Written on a card kept in the operator's pocket

Explanation

A registered PWC must display its registration number on the hull in the position and manner required by the registration rules. The markings allow the craft to be identified from a distance. Keeping the number only on paperwork or a trailer does not meet the requirement.

Question 6PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

What is the purpose of the knowledge test that applicants must pass for a NSW PWC licence?

  1. To assess the applicant's mechanical repair skills
  2. To confirm the applicant can swim long distances
  3. To show the applicant understands the rules and safety obligations Correct answer.
  4. To measure the applicant's reaction time on the water

Explanation

The knowledge test checks that an applicant understands boating rules, safety requirements and responsibilities before being licensed. Passing it shows the person knows the obligations that come with operating a PWC. It is not a physical or mechanical assessment.

Question 7PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A 15-year-old wants to operate a PWC on a NSW lake. What is the correct position under the licensing rules?

  1. They may operate it if they pass the knowledge test early
  2. They are below the minimum age and cannot hold a PWC licence Correct answer.
  3. They may operate it only while an adult watches from shore
  4. They may operate it alone if they wear a lifejacket

Explanation

The minimum age for a PWC licence in NSW is 16, so a 15-year-old cannot be licensed to operate the craft. Supervision, lifejackets or early testing do not remove the age requirement. Allowing an unlicensed person to operate a PWC can expose both the operator and the vessel owner to penalties.

Question 8PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

An interstate visitor holds a current interstate boat driving licence with a PWC endorsement. They plan to ride a PWC in NSW for a holiday. What is the most accurate statement?

  1. They must register the PWC again in NSW for the holiday
  2. They must sit the NSW knowledge test before every visit
  3. Their interstate PWC endorsement is recognised for the visit Correct answer.
  4. They may only operate under direct supervision of a NSW licensee

Explanation

NSW recognises interstate licences that authorise PWC operation, so a visitor holding a valid interstate PWC endorsement may operate during the visit. They do not need to repeat the NSW knowledge test or re-register a vessel that is validly registered elsewhere. Local operating rules and safety requirements still apply.

Question 9PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A person's PWC licence has been suspended. What does this mean for their ability to ride a PWC?

  1. They may operate only on private waterways
  2. They may operate if they carry a copy of the suspension notice
  3. They may still ride if no one complains
  4. They must not operate a PWC during the suspension Correct answer.

Explanation

A suspended licence is not valid, so the person must not operate a PWC while the suspension is in force. Operating during suspension is an offence and can lead to further penalties or a longer disqualification. The suspension applies regardless of where the craft is used.

Question 10PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A registered PWC is sold to a new owner. What should the seller do about the registration?

  1. Keep the registration number on the hull for the buyer's use
  2. Remove the engine and cancel the hull number
  3. Notify the registering authority of the change of ownership Correct answer.
  4. Wait until the buyer renews the registration

Explanation

When a registered vessel changes hands, the registering authority must be notified so records reflect the transfer. This protects the seller from being linked to later offences and lets the buyer arrange registration properly. Simply leaving the number on the hull does not update the records.

Question 11PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC operator is involved in a collision that causes injury to another person. Which obligation applies?

  1. Report the incident to the police or marine authority Correct answer.
  2. Leave the area before details are exchanged
  3. Post about the incident on social media instead
  4. Repair the other vessel privately and say nothing

Explanation

Incidents involving injury or significant damage must be reported to the appropriate authorities. The operator should stop, give assistance and exchange details as required. Failing to report a notifiable incident can result in serious penalties.

Question 12PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

Which of the following best describes the general duty of a PWC operator on NSW waters?

  1. To sound the horn continuously in crowded areas
  2. To give way only to larger commercial vessels
  3. To travel at the maximum speed the craft allows
  4. To operate safely and avoid danger to people and property Correct answer.

Explanation

Every PWC operator must operate safely, keep a proper lookout and avoid danger to other people, vessels and property. Speed and behaviour should suit the conditions and the area. The duty applies to all operators, not only in relation to commercial traffic.

Question 13PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

What is the main reason PWC operators must keep a minimum distance from other vessels and people when riding?

  1. To prevent collisions and injury from the craft's wash and speed Correct answer.
  2. To save fuel on longer trips
  3. To avoid having to display registration numbers
  4. To reduce the noise heard on shore

Explanation

Distance rules reduce the risk of collision and protect swimmers and other vessels from the effects of a PWC's speed and wash. They are a safety measure, not an efficiency measure. Operators should know the required distances for the waterway they are using.

Question 14PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC owner allows a friend to ride the craft. The friend has never held a licence. Who may face consequences?

  1. Both the friend and the owner Correct answer.
  2. Only the friend
  3. Neither, because no incident occurred
  4. Only the owner

Explanation

The friend commits an offence by operating a PWC without a licence, and the owner can also be liable for allowing an unlicensed person to operate the craft. Liability does not depend on whether an incident occurred. Owners should confirm the rider holds a valid PWC licence before handing over the craft.

Question 15PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A person moves to NSW and holds a current overseas licence that permits PWC operation. What should they check before riding?

  1. Whether they need to buy a new PWC
  2. Whether they can avoid registration entirely
  3. Whether their overseas licence is recognised for PWC use in NSW Correct answer.
  4. Whether they must remove the registration number

Explanation

People holding overseas licences should confirm whether their licence is recognised for PWC operation in NSW or whether further requirements apply. Recognition rules can depend on the licence type and the person's residency status. Buying a new craft or removing markings does not resolve licensing questions.

Question 16PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC licence holder is convicted of a serious boating offence. What is a likely consequence for their licence?

  1. The licence is automatically upgraded
  2. The licence may be suspended or cancelled Correct answer.
  3. The operator is exempt from future knowledge tests
  4. The registration number is transferred to another vessel

Explanation

Serious boating offences can lead to suspension or cancellation of a PWC licence, along with fines or other penalties. The licensing authority can act to protect other water users. An upgraded licence or automatic exemptions are not outcomes of offending.

Question 17PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

Which statement about the relationship between PWC registration and PWC licensing is correct?

  1. Registering the craft automatically licenses every rider
  2. Licensing a rider automatically registers any craft they use
  3. Registration applies to the vessel, while licensing applies to the operator Correct answer.
  4. Neither registration nor licensing is required for private use

Explanation

Registration is concerned with the vessel and its identification, while licensing is concerned with the person operating it. A registered PWC can still be operated unlawfully by an unlicensed rider. Both requirements must be satisfied independently.

Question 18PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

An owner lends a registered PWC to a licensed friend who then rides it in a prohibited area. Which statement best reflects responsibility?

  1. Only the friend is responsible because they were in control
  2. Both may be responsible, as the rider breached rules and the owner allowed the use Correct answer.
  3. The owner is responsible because they own the craft
  4. Neither is responsible because the craft was registered

Explanation

The rider is responsible for where and how they operate the craft, and the owner can also bear responsibility for allowing its use. Registration does not excuse breaches of operating rules. Responsibility can be shared depending on the circumstances.

Question 19PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC operator is asked by an officer to produce a licence but cannot do so. What is the most appropriate understanding of the situation?

  1. The operator may face penalties for failing to produce the licence Correct answer.
  2. The officer must accept a verbal licence number
  3. No issue arises because the licence exists at home
  4. The operator can produce it at any later date without consequence

Explanation

Operators are expected to carry their licence and produce it when requested by an authorised officer. Being unable to produce it can result in penalties even if a licence has been issued. A verbal claim or a promise to produce it later does not satisfy the requirement at the time.

Question 20PWC registration, licensing and general obligations

A PWC is advertised for sale and the seller states it is 'registered, so anyone can ride it'. Why is this statement misleading?

  1. Registration is only valid for the first year of ownership
  2. Registration replaces the need for safety equipment
  3. Registration allows only the seller to ride the craft
  4. Registration covers the vessel, but each rider still needs the appropriate licence Correct answer.

Explanation

Registration identifies and records the vessel, but it does not authorise any particular person to operate it. Each rider must hold a PWC licence or recognised equivalent. The statement wrongly suggests that the vessel's registration confers operating rights on anyone.

Question 21Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

In New South Wales, what is the minimum legal requirement for wearing a lifejacket while operating a personal watercraft on navigable waters?

  1. A lifejacket is only required beyond enclosed waters
  2. A lifejacket must be carried on board but need not be worn
  3. A lifejacket is only required at night or in poor visibility
  4. A lifejacket must be worn at all times while the PWC is underway Correct answer.

Explanation

NSW rules require every person on board a personal watercraft to wear a suitable, correctly fitted lifejacket whenever the vessel is underway. Carrying one without wearing it does not satisfy the requirement, because a stowed jacket cannot be donned quickly enough after a fall. This applies on all navigable waters, not just open sea.

Question 22Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

Before launching a PWC, you check the kill switch lanyard. What is the purpose of attaching it to your person?

  1. It signals your location to other vessels
  2. It stops the engine if you fall off and separate from the craft Correct answer.
  3. It locks the steering so the craft cannot be moved
  4. It activates the bilge pump automatically

Explanation

The lanyard connects the rider to the engine cut-off switch so that separation from the craft, such as falling off, immediately stops the engine. This prevents the unmanned craft from continuing at speed and creating a runaway hazard. It has no role in steering locks, pumping, or signalling.

Question 23Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

You are preparing to ride and notice the fire extinguisher on board is past its service date and the gauge shows low pressure. What is the correct action?

  1. Ride as planned because extinguishers are optional on PWCs
  2. Replace or recharge the extinguisher before riding Correct answer.
  3. Carry a bucket of water instead as an equivalent
  4. Shake the extinguisher and continue if the gauge moves

Explanation

A fire extinguisher that is out of date or showing low pressure may not operate when needed, so it must be replaced or serviced before the craft is used. Safety equipment must be in serviceable condition, not merely present. A bucket of water is not an acceptable substitute for the required extinguisher.

Question 24Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

What should you do with the engine before checking the jet intake for debris or rope?

  1. Leave the engine idling in neutral
  2. Rev the engine briefly to clear the debris
  3. Tilt the craft while the engine runs
  4. Shut the engine off and remove the lanyard Correct answer.

Explanation

The jet intake can cause serious injury if the engine is running or can start unexpectedly, so the engine must be shut down and the lanyard removed before you reach near the intake. Only then should you clear debris. This isolates the ignition and removes stored risk.

Question 25Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

Which item is essential for a PWC rider to carry so that help can be summoned in an emergency on open water?

  1. A marine radio or other approved means of distress signalling Correct answer.
  2. A spare spark plug
  3. A waterproof torch only
  4. A second kill switch lanyard

Explanation

Reliable communication or distress signalling equipment, such as a marine radio or approved flares, allows you to call for help when far from shore. Spare parts and torches do not transmit a distress message. Carrying an approved means of signalling is part of standard pre-ride preparation.

Question 26Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

When should you perform a pre-ride check of the hull, steering, and controls?

  1. Before every ride, regardless of how recently it was used Correct answer.
  2. Only after any collision or grounding
  3. Only when the craft has not been used for a long period
  4. Once at the start of each season

Explanation

A pre-ride check should be completed before every outing, because faults can develop between rides even on a craft used recently. Checking steering, hull condition, and controls each time catches problems before they become emergencies on the water. Seasonal or event-based checks alone leave gaps.

Question 27Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

You are riding alone and plan to travel several kilometres offshore. Which combination best reflects sound safety preparation?

  1. A charged radio, worn lifejacket, and a float plan left with a responsible person Correct answer.
  2. A tow rope and a spare fuel can only
  3. A loud whistle and a map only
  4. A mobile phone in a waterproof bag as the sole safety measure

Explanation

Riding alone offshore requires redundancy: a worn lifejacket, a reliable means of communication, and a float plan so someone knows your route and expected return. Together these shorten the time before a search begins if you fail to return. A single device or a tow rope alone leaves critical gaps.

Question 28Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

After refuelling a PWC at a marina, what should you do before starting the engine?

  1. Ventilate the engine compartment and check for fuel leaks or fumes Correct answer.
  2. Close all vents to keep fuel vapour inside
  3. Start the engine immediately to burn off spilled fuel
  4. Fill the compartment with water to dilute spills

Explanation

Fuel vapour is heavier than air and can collect in the engine compartment, creating an explosion risk. After refuelling you should ventilate the compartment and inspect for leaks or strong fumes before starting. Never start an engine in an atmosphere with fuel vapour present.

Question 29Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

A rider notices the steering feels stiff and does not return smoothly during a pre-ride check. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Spray lubricant on the nozzle and launch immediately
  2. Do not launch until the steering fault is identified and corrected Correct answer.
  3. Increase speed to free the steering mechanism
  4. Ride slowly and monitor whether it improves on the water

Explanation

Steering is a primary control; stiffness or poor return can cause loss of control at speed. The craft should not be launched until the fault is found and fixed. Hoping it improves on the water or applying a quick spray does not confirm the system is safe.

Question 30Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

What is the correct way to confirm a lifejacket fits a rider before departure?

  1. Wear it only over a heavy jacket for padding
  2. Choose the largest available size for comfort
  3. Wear it loosely so it can be removed quickly in the water
  4. Fasten it and check it stays in place when lifted at the shoulders Correct answer.

Explanation

A correctly fitted lifejacket is fastened and does not ride up over the head when lifted at the shoulders. A loose jacket can slip off or fail to keep the head clear of water. Fit should be checked on each wearer before departure, including children.

Question 31Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

Why is it important to check the weather forecast and local warnings as part of pre-ride preparation?

  1. To determine the registration fee payable
  2. To set the correct tyre pressure on a trailer
  3. To calculate the fuel consumption of the engine
  4. To decide whether conditions are suitable and adjust plans before launching Correct answer.

Explanation

Checking forecasts and warnings lets you judge whether conditions suit your craft, skill, and planned route, and to postpone or change plans before launching. Conditions can deteriorate quickly on open water. Fuel calculations, fees, and trailer pressures are unrelated to weather planning.

Question 32Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

You are about to tow a PWC on a trailer to the ramp. Which check belongs to the pre-tow safety routine?

  1. Confirm the coupling is locked, safety chains are attached, and lights work Correct answer.
  2. Deflate the trailer tyres to soften the ride
  3. Remove the trailer lights to avoid water damage
  4. Leave the winch strap loose for quick launching

Explanation

Before towing, the coupling must be properly locked onto the tow ball, safety chains connected, and trailer lights tested. These checks prevent the trailer separating or being unseen by other drivers. Leaving straps loose or removing lights creates avoidable hazards.

Question 33Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

A rider plans a long trip and wants to carry essential safety gear. Which set is most appropriate for a PWC with limited storage?

  1. A large esky and fishing rods
  2. Lifejackets, radio or flares, fire extinguisher, and a tow line Correct answer.
  3. A spare anchor chain and two folding chairs
  4. A second engine and fuel drums

Explanation

PWCs have limited storage, so the priority is required and life-saving gear: worn lifejackets, a means of signalling distress, a fire extinguisher, and a tow line for breakdowns. Bulky recreational items displace essential equipment. Selection should favour compact, required items.

Question 34Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

During a pre-ride inspection you find the battery terminals are corroded and the engine cranks slowly. What is the best course of action?

  1. Jump-start from another craft and ride without further checks
  2. Clean and secure the terminals and confirm reliable starting before launching Correct answer.
  3. Ignore it because slow cranking is normal for PWCs
  4. Launch and rely on the engine starting once warm

Explanation

Corroded or loose battery terminals can cause intermittent starting failure and electrical faults, which are dangerous on the water. The terminals should be cleaned and secured, and reliable starting confirmed before launching. Relying on a jump start or ignoring the symptom risks being stranded.

Question 35Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

A rider carries an inflatable lifejacket. What pre-ride checks keep it reliable?

  1. Check the cylinder is armed, the indicator shows ready, and the jacket is not punctured Correct answer.
  2. Remove the gas cylinder to reduce weight
  3. Wear it only over the top of a wetsuit hood
  4. Store it deflated and folded tightly in a locker

Explanation

Inflatable lifejackets rely on a charged gas cylinder and an intact bladder, so before each use you should confirm the cylinder is armed, the status indicator shows ready, and the jacket has no punctures. These checks ensure it will inflate when needed. Removing the cylinder or storing it compressed defeats its purpose.

Question 36Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

You are planning a solo ride at dusk in cold water. Which pre-ride decision best manages the combined risks?

  1. Extend the route to finish before dark and skip the lifejacket for comfort
  2. Rely on other boaters being present to assist if needed
  3. Ride as planned but leave the radio ashore to save weight
  4. Shorten the route, wear thermal protection plus a lifejacket, and carry signalling gear Correct answer.

Explanation

Cold water and low light increase the consequences of a capsize or breakdown, so reducing exposure time, wearing thermal protection with a lifejacket, and carrying signalling gear manages the combined risk. Assuming others will assist is not a plan. Comfort is never a reason to omit flotation.

Question 37Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

What is the main reason for checking that the jet unit and reverse bucket move freely before riding?

  1. To confirm steering and reverse response will work when manoeuvring Correct answer.
  2. To increase the top speed of the craft
  3. To charge the battery while riding
  4. To reduce fuel consumption at idle

Explanation

The jet unit and reverse bucket control thrust direction, so free movement confirms you will have steering and reverse when manoeuvring, especially at low speed and when docking. A jammed bucket can leave the craft unresponsive. Top speed, fuel use, and charging are unrelated to this check.

Question 38Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

A rider launches from a ramp and, shortly after, the engine overheats. Which pre-ride omission most likely contributed?

  1. Failing to leave a float plan with a friend
  2. Failing to confirm the cooling water intake was clear of sand and debris Correct answer.
  3. Failing to check the trailer lights
  4. Failing to inflate the lifejacket before departure

Explanation

Overheating soon after launch commonly points to a blocked cooling water intake, often from sand or debris picked up at the ramp. Confirming the intake is clear before launching prevents this. Lifejacket inflation, trailer lights, and float plans do not affect engine cooling.

Question 39Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

Two riders share a PWC. One wears a lifejacket sized for the other. What is the safest pre-ride adjustment?

  1. Tighten the straps as far as possible on the larger wearer
  2. Wear the jacket unfastened so it can be removed quickly
  3. Adjust or swap the jacket so each wearer has a correctly fitted one Correct answer.
  4. Accept the mismatch because a lifejacket is still worn

Explanation

A lifejacket only performs as designed when correctly fitted to each wearer; an oversized or undersized jacket can ride up or restrict movement. Adjusting or swapping to achieve correct fit is the safe adjustment. Tightening a wrong-sized jacket or wearing it unfastened does not fix the fit.

Question 40Safety equipment and pre-ride checks

A rider plans a trip where mobile coverage is patchy and other vessels are rare. Which pre-ride equipment decision provides the most reliable distress capability?

  1. Carry two mobile phones on different networks
  2. Carry a loud whistle and a mirror only
  3. Carry an approved marine radio or distress beacon and know how to use it Correct answer.
  4. Carry a spare fuel can and a paddle

Explanation

Where coverage is patchy and traffic is sparse, an approved marine radio or distress beacon provides the most reliable way to raise an alarm because it does not depend on mobile networks. Knowing how to operate it before departure is essential. Phones, whistles, and paddles are less dependable in those conditions.

Question 41Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

Under the international collision regulations, which vessel must keep out of the way when a power-driven vessel meets a sailing vessel in open water?

  1. Whichever vessel is to starboard
  2. The sailing vessel
  3. Whichever vessel is larger
  4. The power-driven vessel Correct answer.

Explanation

In a crossing situation between a power-driven vessel and a sailing vessel, the power-driven vessel is the give-way vessel and must keep clear. The sailing vessel maintains her course and speed unless a risk of collision requires action.

Question 42Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

Two power-driven vessels are approaching head-on with a risk of collision. What action should each take?

  1. Both alter course to port
  2. The faster vessel slows down
  3. Both alter course to starboard Correct answer.
  4. The smaller vessel stops

Explanation

When two power-driven vessels meet nearly end-on, each must alter course to starboard so they pass port side to port side. This predictable manoeuvre avoids confusion about which way each will turn.

Question 43Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

When two power-driven vessels are crossing and a risk of collision exists, which vessel is the give-way vessel?

  1. The one approaching from seaward
  2. The one that has the other on her starboard side Correct answer.
  3. The one that has the other on her port side
  4. The one travelling at the greater speed

Explanation

In a crossing situation between power-driven vessels, the vessel that has the other on her starboard side must keep out of the way. The other vessel is the stand-on vessel and keeps her course and speed.

Question 44Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

What does a single short blast from a power-driven vessel mean?

  1. I intend to overtake you on your port side
  2. I am altering my course to port
  3. I am operating astern propulsion
  4. I am altering my course to starboard Correct answer.

Explanation

Under the sound signal rules, one short blast indicates the vessel is altering course to starboard. Two short blasts indicate altering to port, and three short blasts indicate operating astern propulsion.

Question 45Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

In restricted visibility, what sound signal must a power-driven vessel making way through the water sound?

  1. One prolonged blast at intervals of no more than two minutes Correct answer.
  2. Two prolonged blasts at intervals of no more than one minute
  3. Three short blasts every two minutes
  4. One short blast every thirty seconds

Explanation

A power-driven vessel making way in restricted visibility sounds one prolonged blast at intervals not exceeding two minutes. This warns other vessels of an approaching power-driven vessel under way.

Question 46Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

A vessel is overtaking another in a narrow channel. Which statement is correct?

  1. The overtaking vessel must keep clear until finally past and clear Correct answer.
  2. The overtaking vessel has right of way once alongside
  3. The vessel being overtaken must alter course to help
  4. Both vessels must alter course to starboard

Explanation

The overtaking vessel is always the give-way vessel and must keep out of the way until she is finally past and clear. The vessel being overtaken keeps her course and speed.

Question 47Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

What is the first action required when a risk of collision is suspected?

  1. Wait until the other vessel signals her intention
  2. Reduce speed to bare steerage way immediately
  3. Sound five short blasts and hold course
  4. Take early and substantial action to keep well clear Correct answer.

Explanation

The steering rules require positive, timely and substantial action so the other vessel can see what you are doing. Waiting to see what the other vessel does increases the risk of collision.

Question 48Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

When must a stand-on vessel take action to avoid a collision?

  1. When it becomes apparent the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action Correct answer.
  2. As soon as the other vessel is within one nautical mile
  3. Never, because the give-way vessel bears all responsibility
  4. Only after the give-way vessel sounds five short blasts

Explanation

The stand-on vessel must keep her course and speed initially, but once it is clear the give-way vessel is not acting properly she must take action. She may also act to avoid collision when the situation demands it.

Question 49Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

Which vessel must keep out of the way when a power-driven vessel meets a vessel engaged in fishing?

  1. The vessel further from the coast
  2. The power-driven vessel Correct answer.
  3. The vessel with the wind on her port side
  4. The fishing vessel

Explanation

A power-driven vessel under way normally keeps clear of a vessel engaged in fishing. The fishing vessel is restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, so the power-driven vessel must give way.

Question 50Collision regulations, right of way and safe navigation

Two sailing vessels are approaching with the wind on different sides. Which one must keep clear?

  1. The one to leeward
  2. The one with the wind on her port side Correct answer.
  3. The one with the wind on her starboard side
  4. The one to windward

Explanation

When sailing vessels have the wind on different sides, the vessel with the wind on her port side keeps clear of the vessel with the wind on her starboard side.