Question 1

Rule 34(e) requires a particular sound signal from a vessel nearing a bend or area of a channel/fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction. What is this signal?

Accepted Answer

One prolonged blast — and any approaching vessel within hearing of the bend shall respond with a prolonged blast of her own Rule 34(e) is the "blind bend" signal — one prolonged blast, answered with a prolonged blast by any vessel that hears it from the other side of the bend, giving each advance warning of the other's presence before visual contact is possible.

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.