Question 1

A power-driven vessel of less than 50 metres in length is at anchor at night. What light(s) must she show under Rule 30?

Accepted Answer

An all-round white light where it can best be seen (Rule 30(a)) — vessels of 50m or more must show two such lights, one forward and one aft, plus deck lighting if 100m or more Rule 30 prescribes anchor lights distinct from underway lights — a single all-round white light for vessels under 50m, scaling up to two lights (and deck illumination) for larger vessels, by day a black ball is shown instead.

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.