Question 1

Under Rule 30, a vessel at anchor by day is required to show, where it can best be seen, a black ball shape forward — and a vessel aground in addition shows two black balls in a vertical line plus the anchor light/shape arrangements, and may sound the appropriate bell/gong signals.

Accepted Answer

True True. Rule 30 requires a vessel at anchor to show one ball where it can best be seen by day, plus appropriate all-round white anchor lights by night (varying with length). A vessel aground additionally shows two balls in a vertical line and may give the bell signal required by Rule 35(g) — three separate strokes before and after rapid ringing of the bell, plus an additional gong signal for vessels 100m or more in length.

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.