Question 1

You're OOW in a Traffic Separation Scheme in fog. Two vessels show closing CPAs on radar — one overtaking you, one crossing from the south — and neither has been contacted by VHF or sound signal. What's the priority?

Accepted Answer

Attempt VHF and/or sound-signal contact with both vessels to confirm their intentions before either situation closes further In the real incident, none of the three vessels — Kariba, Tricolor or Clary — sounded a fog signal or attempted VHF contact with any of the others in the fifteen minutes before the collision, despite all three having full radar data on each other the entire time.

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.