Page 66 - Collision Avoidance Rules Guide

when vessels are in sight of one another. The diagram illustrates a
situation of this kind. Both ranges and bearings should be taken into
account when determining whether there is risk of collision.
In the case of Crystal Jewel-British Aviator, 1964, the British
Aviator observed the echo of the Crystal Jewel to broaden slowly
from 9" on the starboard bow at a distance of 9 miles until the last
reported bearing which was, reputedly, 45" on the starboard bow at 3
of a mile. It was assumed that the other vessel was passing clear, star-
board to starboard. The Crystal Jewel had, in fact, made a number of
small alterations to starboard, anticipating a port to port situation.

RULE 8
Action to Avoid Collision
(a) Any action to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance
with the rules of this Part and, if the circumstances of the case
admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard
to the observance of good seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall,
if the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be
readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by
radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or
speed should be avoided.
(c) If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may
be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situa-
tion provided that it is made in good time, is substantial and
does not result in another close-quarters situation.

(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be
such as to result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness

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