Question 1

Rule 10(j) states that a vessel of less than 20 metres in length, a sailing vessel, or a vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the safe passage of a power-driven vessel following a traffic lane within a TSS. How does this interact with the general priority a fishing vessel would otherwise have under Rule 18?

Accepted Answer

Within a TSS, Rule 10(j) creates a specific exception to the general Rule 18 hierarchy — a fishing vessel (along with small craft and sailing vessels) must not impede a power-driven vessel following the traffic lane, even though Rule 18 would normally require power-driven vessels to keep clear of fishing vessels in open water This is a classic "exception to the exception" — Rule 18 generally protects fishing vessels and sailing vessels, but Rule 10(j) specifically reverses this within a TSS for vessels following the lane, recognising that TSS lanes exist to manage large volumes of through traffic safely.

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.