Question 1

Two sailing vessels are approaching one another so as to involve risk of collision, with the wind on different sides of each vessel. Under Rule 12, which vessel must keep out of the way of the other?

Accepted Answer

The vessel which has the wind on the port side must keep out of the way of the other Rule 12(a)(i) — when both sailing vessels have the wind on different sides, the vessel with the wind on the port side keeps out of the way of the other. (Rule 12 also addresses the case where both have wind on the same side, and where the windward vessel cannot determine which side the wind is on for the other vessel.)

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.