A vessel at LAT 38°36'N, LONG 11°36'W, heads for a destination at LAT 24°16'N, LONG 71°52'W. Determine the true course and distance by Mercator sailing.

Correct Answer: Option D — 254.4°T, 3,203.6 miles

Mercator sailing uses the difference in meridional parts to solve for course and distance. By calculating the difference in latitude, difference in longitude, and meridional parts, the resulting rhumb line course is 254.4°T with a distance of 3,203.6 miles, as defined by the principles in Bowditch.