While on a course of 034°pgc, a light bears 8° on the port bow at a distance of 8.8 miles. What course should you steer to pass 2.5 miles abeam of the light leaving it to port?

Correct Answer: Option A — 043°pgc

This is a relative motion problem. The light is 8° on the port bow. To pass 2.5 miles abeam, you must calculate the required course change. Using the geometry of the approach, a turn to 043°pgc provides the necessary geometry to achieve the desired 2.5-mile passing distance.