When two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on and there is a risk of collision, each shall __________.

When two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on and there is a risk of collision, each shall __________.

• A. Alter course to starboard
• B. Alter course to port
• C. Stop engines
• D. Increase speed

Answer: (A)

When two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on and there’s a risk of collision, each vessel must alter course to starboard. This rule provides a consistent, predictable way for both vessels to avoid collision by passing on the other’s port side. Turning to starboard (right) ensures both vessels take the same type of corrective action, reducing confusion and the chance of a collision. Altering course to port would have them pass on the opposite side and is not the prescribed maneuver in a head-on situation. Stopping engines or increasing speed does not constitute the required action to avoid a head-on collision and can actually worsen the risk.

When two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on and there’s a risk of collision, each vessel must alter course to starboard. This rule provides a consistent, predictable way for both vessels to avoid collision by passing on the other’s port side. Turning to starboard (right) ensures both vessels take the same type of corrective action, reducing confusion and the chance of a collision. Altering course to port would have them pass on the opposite side and is not the prescribed maneuver in a head-on situation. Stopping engines or increasing speed does not constitute the required action to avoid a head-on collision and can actually worsen the risk.