Head-on situation
In case of a head-on situation between two power-driven vessels, both shall alter course to starboard (right) and pass on the port (left) side of the other. A head-on situation exists by night if both red and green sidelights are visible. And if there is doubt about the situation, it shall be assumed that it is a head-on.
Port to
Port (preferred)
Leave to
Starboard (if in agreement)
Crossing situation
In case of a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels, the one that has the other on its starboard side shall give way and avoid crossing ahead of her.
The “stand-on” vessel must maintain its course and speed.
The “give-way” vessel can alter speed or alter course, or indeed, a combination of the above.
If both vessels are head on (on reciprocal courses) each will alter course to starboard and keep out of the way of the other.
Action by “give-way” vessel
When a vessel has the obligation to give way, it shall do it in good time and as distinctly as possible.
Action by “stand-on” vessel
The vessel with right of way – or stand-on vessel – shall maintain its course and speed.
However, when it is clear that the “give-way” vessel is either not taking any actions or not doing enough for preventing a collision, then the “stand-on” vessel must act.
In such a situation, the “stand-on” vessel shall not alter its course to port.
Responsibilities between vessels
A power-driven vessel should keep out of the way of a vessel restricted in any way, whether in her ability to manoeuvre, not under command, fishing or sailing.
A sailing vessel must keep out of the way of all except a power-driven vessel.
A fishing vessel (when actually fishing) should keep clear of a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre or a vessel not under command.
Any vessel except not under command or a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre should keep clear of a vessel that is constrained by her draught.
A seaplane should keep clear of everything.
Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility
All ships of any kind should proceed at a safe speed in mist, fog or other such conditions that restrict visibility. They should be ready for immediate manoeuvre. They should stop engines and even go astern if required.
If another vessel is detected on radar, and if there is risk of collision, all ships should take action well in advance. The following actions should be avoided:
Turning to port for a vessel forward of the beam, except when overtaking.
Turning towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.
Fog signals are highly recommended in such situations. It is also imperative to navigate with extreme caution in fog, especially when other ships are close by and cannot be seen. In case of uncertainty of another vessels movement and if a fog signal is heard ahead, reduce to minimum speed or stop.
Make-up word combinations and translate them:
1) crossing collision 1)____________________________
2) starboard visibility 2)____________________________
3) sailing speed 3)____________________________
4) stern side 4)____________________________
5) alter light 5)____________________________
6) fishing courses 6)____________________________
7) alter vessel 7)____________________________
8) restricted situation 8)____________________________
9) overtaking course 9)____________________________
10) reciprocal vessel 10)___________________________
11) preventing situation 11)___________________________
12) head-on vessel 12)___________________________