Question 1

Continuing the same situation: you plot the target and get CPA 0.3nm, TCPA 24 minutes, bearing still steady. What is the primary risk here, and what governs whether you must treat it as a genuine risk of collision?

Accepted Answer

Under Rule 7(a), if there is any doubt as to whether risk of collision exists, it shall be deemed to exist — a CPA this close with a steady bearing removes any real doubt, so risk of collision must be treated as established, not just possible Rule 7(a)'s 'if in doubt, assume risk exists' standard is deliberately conservative — a 0.3nm CPA with a steady bearing is well within the range where risk of collision must be treated as real, triggering the obligations in Rules 8 and 15-17.

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.