Question 1

A sailing vessel under sail alone, underway at night, is showing sidelights and a sternlight only (no masthead light). Is this correct under Rule 25?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Rule 25 requires sailing vessels underway to show sidelights and a sternlight (or alternatively a combined tricolour lantern at the masthead), but not a masthead light, which would indicate a power-driven vessel Rule 25 sets out lighting for sailing vessels — sidelights and sternlight (or a tricolour lantern combining both at the top of the mast on vessels under 20m) — deliberately omitting the masthead light that distinguishes power-driven 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.