COLREG Rule 5 — Lookout

COLREG Rule 5 — Look-out: 'Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.' The duty is unconditional and overrides every other rule. Radar, AIS, ECDIS, and electronic aids supplement but never replace the visual and aural watch. Many reported collisions trace to a Rule 5 failure — typically a single OOW distracted by paperwork while autopilot held course in restricted visibility.