In head-on situations involving international vessels, what action is required?

• A. Each vessel shall alter course to starboard.
• B. Each vessel shall maintain course.
• C. The give-way vessel must stop.
• D. The other vessel must radio the other.

Answer: (A)

In a head-on situation, international navigation rules require both vessels to alter course to starboard so they pass on the other vessel’s port side. This shared, predictable maneuver reduces confusion and the risk of collision by ensuring both ships take the same basic evasive action. Maintaining course would keep the danger, stopping isn’t demanded by the rules, and radio communication isn’t the method for avoiding a collision in this scenario. If turning to starboard isn’t possible due to other traffic or danger, other safe evasive actions may be taken, but the default requirement is to steer to the right.