Question 1

A vessel is at anchor with her engines stopped, not moving relative to the ground. Is she "underway" for the purposes of the COLREGS?

Accepted Answer

No — a vessel at anchor is, by definition (Rule 3(i)), not underway, regardless of whether her engines could be started quickly "Underway" (Rule 3(i)) is defined by exclusion (not anchored, made fast to shore, or aground) — a vessel at anchor is not underway by definition. Separately, "making way" refers to a vessel underway that is moving through the water (relevant to Rule 35's fog signals), which is a different concept again.

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.