Question 1

You're the lookout and you're told to use the daylight signalling lamp to attract another vessel's attention. What's the most effective way to do this?

Accepted Answer

From an open position, such as the bridge wing, where the light is unobstructed and clearly directed at the other vessel In the real incident, the lookout was first told to signal from inside the bridge, which likely reduced its effectiveness — he was only sent out to the bridge wing moments before the collision, too late to matter. COLREGS Rule 36 permits light or sound signals to attract attention, but only if they can actually be seen or heard by the other vessel.

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.