Question 1

True or False: COLREGS' traditional framework of "stand-on" and "give-way" vessels was designed with the assumption that every vessel has a crew aboard capable of keeping a lookout and taking avoiding action.

Accepted Answer

True True. This is precisely the gap MAIB's investigation into the Iceni Legend/X18 collision is examining — an uncrewed surface vessel doesn't have a traditional lookout, and the regulatory landscape for how COLREGS applies to autonomous and uncrewed vessels is still actively being developed, including through the IMO's work on a goal-based instrument for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS).

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.