Question 1

A vessel intends to join a Traffic Separation Scheme lane from the side (not from a designated entry/exit point). Under Rule 10(b), how should this be done?

Accepted Answer

A vessel joining or leaving a traffic lane shall do so, so far as practicable, at the termination of the lane, but if joining or leaving from either side shall do so at as small an angle to the general direction of traffic flow as practicable, given the prevailing circumstances Rule 10(b) — preferring entry/exit at the ends of the scheme, but if joining from the side, doing so at as small an angle as practicable to the traffic flow, which is the opposite approach to crossing (which should be at right angles) — the goal in each case is to minimise the time spent moving across the flow of traffic at an unpredictable angle.

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.