Question 1

You are the OOW in fog with the radar showing a target forward of the beam closing on a steady bearing. Under Rule 19, what is your primary obligation?

Accepted Answer

Proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility, and be ready to take avoiding action in good time Rule 19 requires every vessel to proceed at a safe speed in restricted visibility and to have engines ready for immediate manoeuvre. A close-quarters situation developing on radar requires early, substantial action under Rule 19(d)-(e), not a "stand-on" assumption.

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.