What should a vessel not using a traffic separation scheme do?

A vessel that is not using a traffic separation scheme should take care to avoid the scheme by a wide margin for safety reasons. Traffic separation schemes are designed to manage the flow of maritime traffic, allowing vessels to navigate more safely and efficiently. By steering clear of the scheme, a vessel minimizes the risk of collision with other vessels that are following the designated routes established within the scheme.

Crossing the scheme at a 90-degree angle might be appropriate in certain circumstances, but navigating directly through the scheme can create confusion and increase the likelihood of accidents, especially since the scheme is intended for vessels that are following it. Maintaining a course through the scheme disregards the rules established for safe navigation and can disrupt marine traffic flow. Hence, avoiding the scheme by a significant margin is the safest and most proper response for vessels not utilizing the scheme.