The great circle distance from LAT 08°50.0'N, LONG 80°21.0'W to LAT 12°36.0'N, LONG 128°16.0'E is 8664 miles, and the initial course is 306.6°T. Determine the latitude of the vertex.

Correct Answer: Option A — 37°30.2'N

According to Bowditch vertex equations in great circle sailing, the latitude of the vertex ($V_l$) is calculated using the relationship $\cos(V_l) = \sin(\text{Initial Course}) \times \cos(\text{Departure Latitude})$. Applying the given values yields a vertex latitude of 37°30.2'N.