While proceeding along the Mediterranean coast of Spain, you sight the black and yellow buoy shown in illustration D020NG below. Your course is 039°T, and the buoy bears 053°T. What action should you take?

Correct Answer: Option B — Maintain course and ensure that the bearings increase

The illustration depicts a North Cardinal mark. In the Mediterranean (IALA-A), you must pass to the north of the mark. With your course 039°T and the buoy bearing 053°T, the buoy is to your starboard. Maintaining course ensures the bearing increases, confirming you are passing safely to the south.