Question 1

You're new onboard and asked why a lookout's report needs to include a bearing (e.g. "two points on the port bow") rather than just "there's a light out there."

Accepted Answer

A bearing lets the OOW immediately locate the target on radar or plot it, turning a vague sighting into something they can actually assess for risk of collision — without it, valuable time is lost while the OOW tries to work out what you're looking at A precise, simple bearing turns a sighting into actionable information. This is a basic but genuinely important watchkeeping habit for a rating standing lookout — vague reports ("something out there") cost time the OOW may not have, especially in a developing close-quarters situation.

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.