Question 1

During a yacht race, two sailing vessels racing under class rules find themselves in a situation that would also be a "crossing situation" under the COLREGS, with a third (non-racing) vessel also approaching. Do the racing class rules take precedence over the COLREGS with respect to the third vessel?

Accepted Answer

No — the COLREGS apply to all vessels, including those racing; racing class rules may govern right-of-way as between the racing vessels themselves under their private agreement, but cannot override the COLREGS obligations owed to a vessel not party to the race (the third vessel) Racing rules are a private arrangement between competitors and cannot diminish the COLREGS obligations owed to vessels outside that arrangement — a non-racing vessel retains full COLREGS rights/obligations regardless of what the racing rules say between the competitors.

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.