What does Rule 8 require vessels to do to avoid collision?

Rule 8 of the COLREGs requires vessels to take early and substantial action to avoid a collision. This is a crucial principle in maritime navigation that emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent accidents at sea. Maintaining a safe distance and making timely adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of collision, especially in situations where visibility is limited or when the paths of vessels are converging.

The focus of this rule is on the responsibility of vessels to assess their circumstances and to take appropriate action well before the risk of collision becomes imminent. Early action might include altering course or speed, which should be done in a manner that still allows other vessels to anticipate the maneuver.

The other options do not reflect the requirements of Rule 8. Maintaining the current course and speed can be dangerous when the possibility of collision exists, as it can lead to a situation where the vessel becomes unavoidably close to another. Signaling might be part of safe navigation practices, but it does not replace the responsibility of taking action to avoid a collision. Similarly, anchoring would not be a practical or effective response in many circumstances where vessels are underway and at risk of colliding.