Question 1

Your examiner asks you to explain Rule 2 — the "general prudential rule" — and specifically what it means for a vessel to depart from the numbered rules.

Accepted Answer

Rule 2(a) states nothing in the Rules exonerates a vessel, owner, master or crew from the consequences of neglecting precautions required by ordinary practice of seamen or by the special circumstances of the case. Rule 2(b) permits departure from the Rules where necessary to avoid immediate danger — but this is a narrow exception for genuine emergencies, not a general licence to disregard the numbered rules when inconvenient Rule 2 is examined precisely because it's easy to misquote as a blanket excuse. The real content is two-sided: 2(a) is a duty (ordinary seamanship is always expected, on top of the specific rules), and 2(b) is a narrow safety valve (departure only to avoid immediate danger). An examiner probing this wants to hear both halves, and specifically that 2(b) is not a general override.

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.