Crossing in clear Visibility:
When a vessel is crossing another vessel in clear visibility, the OOW (Officer on Watch) should take the following actions as per the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs):
- Keep a sharp lookout: The OOW should maintain a constant watch and look out for other vessels that may pose a risk of collision.
- Determine the risk of collision: The OOW should assess the risk of collision by taking into account factors such as the distance, bearing, and speed of the other vessel.
- Take early action: If the OOW believes that a risk of collision exists, the OOW should take early action to avoid a collision by altering the vessel’s course and/or speed. The OOW should also communicate with the other vessel using other means, such as VHF radio, to establish contact and exchange information as necessary to avoid a collision.
- Avoid crossing ahead: If the OOW determines that a crossing situation exists, the OOW should take action to avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel. The OOW should also sound the appropriate sound signals to indicate the vessel’s intentions.
- Monitor the other vessel: The OOW should continue to monitor the other vessel and take action as necessary to avoid a collision. If the other vessel does not take appropriate action to avoid a collision, the OOW should sound the appropriate sound signals to indicate the vessel’s intentions.
- Record the incident: After the situation has been resolved, the OOW should record the incident in the vessel’s logbook and report it to the Master as soon as possible.
