In a head-on situation, what should both boats do?

• A. Maintain course and speed.
• B. Turn to port.
• C. Both boats must stop.
• D. Both boats should alter course to starboard (right).

Answer: (D)

In a head-on situation, the standard practice is for both vessels to alter course to starboard (to the right) so that they pass on the other vessel’s port side. This creates a predictable, safe maneuver and reduces the risk of collision for both boats. Maintaining course would keep the collision course unchanged, and turning to port could bring the vessels into each other’s path. Stopping is unnecessary and awkward for coordinated avoidance. So, turning to starboard is the correct, safety-oriented action.