Rule 5: Look-out

We can only hope to avoid something if we know it’s there. Unfortunately, not being aware of another vessel is the most significant single cause of collisions at sea.

While this is a short rule, we can break it down to ensure we fully appreciate our obligations.

Full Appraisal

This is our obligation under the rule. A full appraisal tells us that we cannot leave anything to chance. The rest of the breakdown explains what we need to do to fulfil this obligation regarding the risk of collision.

Proper look-out

The meaning of a proper look-out is baked into the rule. It means ensuring we have enough information to make a ‘full appraisal of the situation‘ to assess any ‘risk of collision‘.

Blind spots

Most sailing yachts have at least two significant blind spots. Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget these. Monitoring what’s being shielded by the sails is part of a proactive look-out, either with someone positioned to see behind them or regular area checks.

All available means

This one is more ambiguous but extends ‘look-out’ beyond just the crew’s eyes and ears.

Of course, on a clear summer’s day, our primary watchkeeping tools are the eyes and ears of the crew, but ‘all available means‘ tell us to use any collision avoidance equipment on the vessel to provide a ‘full appraisal‘ of the situation. Any tool that can help us keep a good lookout should be used where appropriate.

At all times

This reminds us there is no let-up when we should keep a proper look-out. Having lunch isn’t an excuse! If underway (not attached to shore), we must keep watch and assess our surroundings for collision risks.