Question 1

You are navigating a narrow channel and a vessel that can only navigate safely within the channel is approaching from astern, signalling intent to overtake. What does Rule 9 require?

Accepted Answer

The vessel being overtaken, if she agrees, must take steps to permit safe passing — the overtaking vessel sounds the appropriate signal (Rule 34) and must not impede the safe passage of the vessel being overtaken if doing so would put either vessel at risk Rule 9(e) governs overtaking in narrow channels — the overtaking vessel signals intent and the vessel being overtaken, if in agreement, should facilitate passing, but always within the limits of safe navigation for both vessels.

Question 2

Rule 5 (Look-out) requires every vessel at all times to maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing, as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions — and this duty applies even when the vessel is at anchor in a busy anchorage.

Accepted Answer

True True. Rule 5 applies 'at all times' and to 'every vessel'. A vessel at anchor in a busy anchorage still needs an effective look-out to detect drifting vessels, dragging anchors, or approaching traffic that may pose a risk of collision or contact.

Question 3

Under Rule 6 (Safe Speed), a vessel fitted with a fully operational radar and ARPA never needs to reduce speed in restricted visibility, because the equipment guarantees early detection of other vessels.

Accepted Answer

False False. Rule 6 explicitly lists radar capability as one factor to consider, but also requires accounting for the state of visibility, traffic density, manoeuvrability, and the limitations of radar (range scale, sea/rain clutter, blind sectors). Even a vessel with excellent radar must proceed at a speed that allows proper and effective action to avoid collision and to be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances.