What should you do in the event of a near collision with another vessel?

In the event of a near collision with another vessel, the best course of action is to alter your course to avoid the other vessel and communicate your intentions. This approach is rooted in the principles of navigational safety and the rules established to prevent collisions at sea.

By altering your course, you are taking proactive measures to steer clear of potential danger. It demonstrates awareness of your surroundings and the position of other vessels. Communication is also crucial; signaling your intentions helps inform the other vessel of your plans, which can prevent confusion and mutual understanding of movements. This is particularly important in busy waterways where multiple vessels may be operating in close proximity to one another.

Furthermore, this practice is aligned with the "rules of the road," which emphasize the need for vessels to avoid collisions by taking appropriate actions based on situational awareness. Ensuring that both vessels are aware of each other's intentions contributes to maritime safety as it helps to establish predictability in vessel movements.

In contrast, increasing speed or holding your position could exacerbate the risk of collision, as it may not give you enough time to avoid the other vessel or create an unclear situation for the other operator. Sounding a horn signal continuously is typically appropriate in situations where you need to alert others of your presence, but