Question 1

You are the OOW on a vessel that is the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation. The give-way vessel appears to be taking no action at all as the range closes. At what point, and based on what, should you decide the give-way vessel is "not taking appropriate action"?

Accepted Answer

There is no single fixed range — it is a judgement based on the developing situation (closing speed, CPA/TCPA, time remaining, and whether any change in the give-way vessel's aspect/bearing is observed); Rule 17(a)(ii) permits the stand-on vessel to act "as soon as it becomes apparent" that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, which calls for active monitoring rather than waiting for a specific range threshold Rule 17(a)(ii) deliberately uses the judgement-based phrase "as soon as it becomes apparent" rather than a fixed range, reflecting that what counts as "apparent" depends on the specific closing geometry, speeds, and how much time remains to act effectively — this is a core seamanship judgement, not a lookup-table 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.