Question 1

Rule 14(c) addresses a situation where a vessel is in doubt as to whether a head-on situation exists. What does this sub-rule instruct, and why is this provision important?

Accepted Answer

If a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists, she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly — this precautionary default ensures that ambiguous bearing/aspect information (e.g. lights nearly, but not exactly, in line) does not lead to inaction or delayed action, since treating an ambiguous case as head-on triggers the well-understood mutual-starboard-alteration response Rule 14(c) is a deliberate "err on the side of the clearer rule" provision — head-on (Rule 14) has the simplest, most symmetrical resolution (both alter to starboard), so resolving doubt in favour of treating the situation as head-on avoids paralysis or delay while the geometry is clarified.

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.