Question 1

You're the OOW on the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation. The other vessel shows no sign of taking avoiding action and the situation is becoming dangerously close. Under Rule 17, what should you do?

Accepted Answer

Take whatever action best avoids collision, including a substantial alteration of course, once it is apparent the other vessel is not taking adequate action MAIB found that Polesie's watchkeeper, as stand-on vessel, eventually made a late, small alteration of course to port rather than the decisive action Rule 17 permits — and ultimately requires — once it's clear the give-way vessel isn't acting. The investigation found this late turn to port "compounded the danger" rather than resolving it.

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.