Question 1

Your examiner asks: "Rule 1 says these regulations apply to all vessels on the high seas and connected waters navigable by seagoing vessels — does that mean a harbour authority can't impose its own local rules on top of COLREGs?" What's the correct answer?

Accepted Answer

Rule 1(b) specifically preserves the right of an appropriate authority to make special rules for roadsteads, harbours, rivers, lakes or inland waterways connected with the high seas — provided those special rules conform as closely as possible to COLREGs. Local byelaws sit alongside COLREGs, not instead of them Rule 1(b) is a foundational but often under-revised provision — it's the legal basis for harbour speed limits, local traffic schemes and other byelaws that layer onto COLREGs rather than replacing them. Examiners use this to check candidates understand COLREGs as a baseline framework that coexists with, rather than excludes, local regulation.

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.