What are the responsibilities of a vessel operating under restricted conditions?

A vessel operating under restricted conditions has the primary responsibility to navigate safely and avoid collisions. This is critical since restricted conditions can include situations such as low visibility, hazardous weather, or confined aquatic spaces, where maneuverability may be limited. The operator must be highly vigilant and maintain a proper lookout, while also assessing the risks posed by other vessels and navigational obstacles.

The emphasis on avoiding collisions is paramount in these situations, as restricted conditions inherently present greater challenges for navigation. Operators must use their skills and judgment to adhere to the navigation rules that apply specifically in these scenarios, ensuring they take appropriate actions to reduce risk.

While factors like maneuverability are important, and lighter vessel protocols may apply to certain situations, the overarching duty remains to avoid collisions and navigate safely given the constraints imposed by the surrounding environment.