Question 1

You are the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation under Rule 17 (Action by Stand-on Vessel). The give-way vessel has not taken appropriate action and the situation is developing into close quarters. What does Rule 17 permit and require?

Accepted Answer

You may take action to avoid collision by your manoeuvre alone as soon as it becomes apparent the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, and if collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel alone, you shall take whatever action will best aid to avoid collision — avoiding, if the circumstances admit, an alteration of course to port for a vessel on your own port side Rule 17(a)(ii) and 17(b) allow — and ultimately require — the stand-on vessel to act once it is apparent the give-way vessel is not keeping clear, and 17(c) advises against an alteration to port for a vessel on the stand-on vessel's own port side in a crossing situation, since that could put the two vessels on converging tracks. Maintaining course and speed (17(a)(i)) only applies while the give-way vessel can still act effectively.

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.