Collision Regulations and Seamanship Flashcards

According to the Collision Regulations, what is the primary responsibility of every vessel operator at all times?

Answer: To maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing.

Rule 5 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) states that every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. This is crucial for a full appraisal of the situation and the risk of collision.

You are operating a small power-driven vessel and see another power-driven vessel approaching from your starboard (right) side in a crossing situation. A risk of collision exists. What action must you take?

Answer: You are the give-way vessel and must take early and substantial action to keep well clear.

In a crossing situation, the vessel that has the other on its own starboard side is the 'give-way' vessel and must keep out of the way. The other vessel is the 'stand-on' vessel and should maintain its course and speed. The give-way vessel should take early and substantial action to avoid crossing ahead of the stand-on vessel.

Under the Collision Regulations, which of the following vessels has the highest priority or 'right-of-way' over all the others listed?

Answer: A vessel not under command.

Rule 18 of the COLREGs establishes a hierarchy of responsibility. A vessel not under command (e.g., due to engine failure) is unable to maneuver as required by the rules and therefore, other vessels, including power-driven vessels, sailing vessels, and vessels engaged in fishing, must keep out of its way.

What is the most reliable way to determine if a risk of collision exists between your vessel and another?

Answer: Taking a series of compass bearings and seeing no significant change.

Rule 7 of the COLREGs states that risk of collision shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change. This indicates that you are on a collision course. A decreasing distance alone isn't sufficient, as the vessels might pass safely ahead or astern of each other.

You are operating your vessel in a narrow channel and intend to overtake another vessel on its starboard side. What is the correct sound signal to indicate your intention?

Answer: Two prolonged blasts followed by one short blast.

According to the Collision Regulations, Rule 34 (Manoeuvring and Warning Signals), in a narrow channel or fairway, a vessel intending to overtake another on its starboard side shall indicate its intention by two prolonged blasts followed by one short blast.

Which of the following actions is required by good seamanship when operating a small vessel?

Answer: Securing all loose gear on deck before getting underway.

Good seamanship involves the prudent and skillful management of a vessel. Securing loose gear is a fundamental safety practice to prevent items from falling overboard, becoming a hazard on deck, or causing damage in rough seas. The other options are incorrect as speed must be adjusted for conditions, passing side depends on the situation, and anchoring is permissible in many locations outside of designated areas, provided it is safe and not prohibited.