Question 1

Two vessels are approaching head-on at night. Vessel A sees Vessel B's masthead light(s) and both sidelights (red and green), roughly in line. Under Rule 14, what should each vessel do?

Accepted Answer

Each vessel shall alter her course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other — Rule 14(a) gives a clear, mutual, and symmetrical instruction precisely because a head-on meeting has no natural "give-way/stand-on" distinction; both vessels altering to starboard resolves the situation cooperatively Rule 14(a) — seeing both masthead lights nearly in line and/or both sidelights is the defining condition for "head-on", and the prescribed mutual starboard alteration (each passing on the other's port side) is one of the most fundamental and universally taught COLREGS actions.

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.