Question 1

Your examiner asks you to define "vessel constrained by her draught" per Rule 3(h) — not just recognise her lights, but state the actual definition.

Accepted Answer

A power-driven vessel which, because of her draught in relation to the available depth and width of navigable water, is severely restricted in her ability to deviate from the course she is following — the definition is specifically tied to depth/draught, not to size, cargo, or general manoeuvrability limitations from other causes Rule 3(h) is a definitions question, and definitions are a classic area where candidates who know the lights/shapes cold can still fumble the exact wording. "Constrained by her draught" is specifically about the relationship between draught and available water — a vessel could be heavily laden in deep water and not be constrained at all, or lightly laden in a shallow channel and genuinely constrained.

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.