A vessel at LAT 33°45'N, LONG 118°30'W, heads for a destination at LAT 21°15'N, LONG 157°36'W. Determine the true course and distance by Mercator sailing.

Correct Answer: Option A — 250.2°T, 2216 miles

Mercator sailing provides the rhumb line solution. By calculating the difference in latitude and the difference in meridional parts, the course is determined by the arctangent of (DLong / DMP). The resulting course of 250.2°T and distance of 2216 miles are consistent with standard USCG navigation examination requirements.