What should be the outcome of any action taken to avoid collision?

The outcome of any action taken to avoid a collision should be to ensure that vessels pass at a safe distance. This principle is rooted in the COLREGs, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance to prevent potential collisions, thereby ensuring the safety of all vessels involved. The regulation encourages mariners to take timely and effective action that not only avoids collisions but also minimizes any risk to navigation.

This approach takes into account factors such as the speed of the vessels, visibility, and other navigational conditions that could affect the safety of a maneuver. By focusing on safe distance, the intention is not only to avoid immediate danger but also to provide a buffer for any unexpected situations that might arise, thus prioritizing safety on the water.

The other options do not align with this necessary emphasis on safety. For instance, passing close to another vessel poses significant risks and could lead to collisions or accidents. Actions taken based on the assumption of right-of-way could potentially lead to reckless behavior, disregarding the primary responsibility for avoiding collisions. Lastly, actions that are quick and unconsidered often lead to hasty decisions that could exacerbate rather than prevent a dangerous situation. Safe navigation requires thoughtful, well-considered actions that prioritize the well-being of all vessels involved