Question 1

Under Rule 10 (Traffic Separation Schemes), in what circumstances is a vessel permitted to cross a traffic lane, and how should the crossing be carried out?

Accepted Answer

A vessel should avoid crossing traffic lanes if at all possible; if crossing cannot be avoided, it must be done on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow, so as to minimise the time spent within the lane and the ambiguity of the crossing vessel's intentions to vessels in the lane Rule 10(c) states that a vessel shall, "so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes, but if obliged to do so shall cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles to the general direction of traffic flow." This reflects the principle that a TSS exists to organise and separate flows of traffic, and a vessel crossing it represents a potential conflict point — crossing at right angles minimises the time the crossing vessel spends in the lane (reducing the duration of potential conflict) and presents the clearest possible aspect to vessels in the lane, making the crossing vessel's intentions and relative motion easier for others to assess. A vessel should not treat crossing as a routine manoeuvre to be done at a convenient angle for its own course — the rule prioritises minimising disruption to, and risk with, vessels using the lane as intended.

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.