Question 1

You allocate a solo night watch to a recently-qualified OOW transiting a busy shipping lane. What must you ensure as Master regarding lookout and bridge manning?

Accepted Answer

Rule 5 requires a proper lookout at all times by sight and hearing, and bridge manning/lookout arrangements must be assessed based on traffic density, visibility, workload and the experience of the watchkeeper — additional lookout may be required in a busy lane regardless of certification Rule 5 (proper lookout) is a continuous obligation, and the adequacy of "by all available means" depends on circumstances — a busy lane at night may require an additional lookout even with a certificated OOW. The Master is responsible for setting safe bridge manning policy.

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.