Question 1

Rule 33 requires vessels of a certain length to carry sound signalling appliances. What is generally required for a vessel of 12 metres or more in length?

Accepted Answer

A vessel of 12m or more in length shall be provided with a whistle, and a vessel of 100m or more in length shall additionally be provided with a bell and a gong — smaller vessels (under 12m) are not obliged to carry these but must have some other means of making an efficient sound signal Rule 33 scales sound signalling equipment requirements by vessel length — whistle for 12m+, with bell/gong added at 100m+ — while vessels under 12m must still have "some other means" of making an efficient sound signal, even if not the specified appliances.

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.