Which item in a Shipping Report is observed relative to our vessel's heading?

• A. True bearing
• B. Relative bearing
• C. Range
• D. Time

Answer: (B)

This item tests how bearings are referenced in a Shipping Report: the angle observed relative to our vessel’s heading. Relative bearing is measured from our own bow, so it tells us where another ship lies in relation to where we’re pointing now. If a target is dead ahead, the relative bearing is 0 degrees; abeam on the starboard side is about 90 degrees; directly aft is around 180 degrees, and so on. This reference frame moves with our ship, which is why it’s so useful for quick situational awareness and collision avoidance—the bearing changes as we turn.

In contrast, true bearing is measured from true north, independent of our heading, and magnetic bearing is from magnetic north. Range is just how far away the other vessel is, and time is the timestamp of the report. So the correct item is the one that reflects the target’s position relative to our current heading.