Question 1

In restricted visibility, you hear (but do not yet see) a fog signal from a vessel apparently forward of your beam. Under Rule 19(e), what is the appropriate immediate response?

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed to the minimum at which the vessel can be kept on course (and, if necessary, take all way off), navigating with extreme caution until the risk of collision is over — recognising a contact forward of the beam in fog as a heightened-risk situation requiring a cautious response even before more information is available Rule 19(e) singles out a fog signal apparently forward of the beam as requiring a precautionary reduction in speed — proceeding "with extreme caution" until the situation is clarified, reflecting the heightened uncertainty of restricted visibility.

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.