A vessel at LAT 40°42.0'N, LONG 74°01.0'W, heads for a destination at LAT 14°41.0'N, LONG 17°26.0'W. Determine the true course and distance by Mercator sailing.

Correct Answer: Option C — 118°T, 3365.0 miles

Mercator sailing utilizes the difference in latitude and meridional parts to find the course and distance. Calculating the difference in latitude and departure, then applying the formula tan(course) = departure / dlat, results in a true course of 118° and a distance of 3365.0 miles between the two points.