Question 1

A vessel displays three all-round lights in a vertical line (red over white over red) by night, or the appropriate day shapes. What does this indicate, and what action might be appropriate when passing?

Accepted Answer

These are the lights/shapes for a vessel constrained by her draft (Rule 28) — she has limited ability to deviate from her course due to the relationship between available depth and her draft, so other vessels should avoid impeding her and allow extra sea room where practicable Rule 28 lights/shapes (three all-round red lights in a vertical line by night, or a cylinder shape by day) signal a vessel constrained by her draft — recognising this helps other vessels understand why she may not be able to make a large course alteration to avoid them, and to give way accordingly where possible.

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.