Question 1

A small motor cruiser is crossing a narrow channel, while a large vessel constrained by her draught is proceeding along the channel in the only safe water available to her. Under Rule 9(d), what is the small craft's obligation?

Accepted Answer

A vessel crossing a narrow channel or fairway shall not impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within that channel or fairway — the small craft must avoid impeding the larger vessel, regardless of what the crossing rules would otherwise indicate Rule 9(d) is a specific override for narrow channels — a vessel that has the whole channel available to manoeuvre (the crossing vessel) must not impede one that is confined to the channel's safe water, regardless of what the general crossing rule (15) might otherwise suggest.

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.