Which actions should you take to avoid a collision?

• A. Allow ample time, back off quickly on the throttles, make a large turn, and use good seamanship.
• B. Increase your speed to pass first, maintain current throttle, stay on course, and honk to warn others.
• C. Maintain your course, keep the same throttle, and wait for the other boat to move.
• D. Stop immediately and reverse engines to stop the other boat.

Answer: (A)

When two vessels are on a riskier close-quarters path, the priority is to avoid collision by taking early, decisive action: give way through speed reduction and a course change, while practicing good seamanship. Slowing down quickly reduces the chance of a dangerous approach, and making a large turn alters your path enough to clear the other vessel’s course. Doing so with proper seamanship includes keeping a proper lookout, communicating as needed, and ensuring you have enough space to maneuver safely.

Rushing to pass or staying on the same course without changing speed keeps you in the same path and reduces your ability to avoid a collision. Waiting for the other boat to move or stopping and reversing to stop the other vessel is not practical or safe in most situations and can create new hazards.