What should a vessel be prepared to do in the event of a close-quarters situation?

In a close-quarters situation, a vessel must be prepared to take avoiding action in ample time to prevent a collision. This principle is rooted in the fundamental requirements of the COLREGs, which emphasize the need for vessels to assess their surroundings and the behavior of other vessels adequately. When two vessels are in proximity, the risk of collision increases significantly, making it imperative for a vessel to act proactively.

Taking avoiding action in ample time means initiating maneuvers early enough to ensure a safe passage and allow the other vessels involved to react accordingly. This can include altering course or speed, depending on the specifics of the situation. The earlier a vessel makes adjustments, the greater the range of options available for maintaining safe navigation.

While maintaining speed and course might seem appropriate in certain circumstances, it can lead to dangerous outcomes in a close-quarters scenario where the possibility of collision is heightened. Likewise, relying solely on radar detection does not account for the importance of visual observations and the navigational rules governing interaction between vessels. Finally, signaling to other vessels is certainly critical for communication, but it does not replace the need for proactive measures to avoid collision. Taking timely avoiding action encompasses a comprehensive approach to ensuring safety on the water.