Question 1

Your vessel is in a Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) under Rule 10. Which of the following is correct?

Accepted Answer

A vessel using a traffic lane shall proceed in the general direction of traffic flow for that lane, and shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes — but if obliged to cross, shall do so on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow Rule 10(b) sets out the obligation to follow the lane's general traffic flow and to cross at as near a right angle as practicable if crossing cannot be avoided. Rule 10(l) confirms that a vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid anchoring in a traffic separation scheme. Importantly, Rule 10 does not relieve any vessel of her obligations under the steering and sailing rules — it operates alongside them, not instead of them.

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.