Question 1

In restricted visibility, you are at anchor. Rule 35(g) requires anchored vessels to make a specific sound signal. What is it, and why might failing to sound it create a hazard for an approaching vessel relying on Rule 19?

Accepted Answer

Rapid ringing of the bell for about 5 seconds at intervals of not more than 1 minute (and, for vessels 100m or more, also a gong in the after part); an approaching vessel in fog relies on hearing this signal to identify your vessel as anchored (and thus stationary) rather than underway — without it, the approaching vessel may misjudge your position, motion, or category, undermining the safe-speed and avoidance decisions required under Rule 19 Rule 35(g) — the bell signal (plus gong for larger vessels) is the anchored-vessel fog signal, distinct from the underway signals in Rule 35(a)-(c). It is one of the cues other vessels in fog rely on to build a picture of nearby vessels' status when visual and even radar information may be ambiguous.

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.