Question 1

You are passing a vessel engaged in trawling (showing green-over-white lights) at night, on a course that will bring you within half a mile of her. What practical considerations, beyond basic give-way obligations, should inform your passing distance?

Accepted Answer

Trawl gear can extend a significant distance behind and to the side of a trawler depending on the type of fishing and gear deployed — even where the trawler does not have specific "right of way" priority over you, allowing generous clearance avoids fouling gear (a hazard to both vessels) and respects the practical reality that the trawler has very limited ability to manoeuvre while gear is deployed Beyond the formal Rule 18 priority, practical seamanship around fishing vessels means considering the extent of gear in the water — fouling a trawl is hazardous and disruptive for both vessels, so generous clearance is good practice regardless of the strict "rule" answer.

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.