Question 1

ÉDOUARD FRANÇOIS collided with an anchored cargo ship while both crew were below dealing with a hydraulic leak, autopilot engaged. What's the key difference between this case and simply leaving the bridge on a steady manual course?

Accepted Answer

Autopilot actively holds a heading toward whatever lies ahead, including a fixed obstruction, with nothing capable of adjusting course if the situation changes The autopilot performed exactly as designed — holding the ordered heading. The danger wasn't a malfunction; it was that a fixed heading, actively maintained with no one watching, will carry a vessel straight into whatever lies on that course, including an anchored ship neither crewman was in a position to see developing.

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.