Rule 8 — Action to Avoid Collision

Rule 8 requires avoiding action to comply with the Rules of Part B and, when circumstances admit, to be positive, made in ample time and taken with due regard to good seamanship. Alterations of course or speed should be large enough to be readily apparent visually or by radar; avoid a succession of small ambiguous changes unless a larger change would produce greater danger.

With enough sea room, alteration of course alone can be the most effective action if it is made in good time, substantial and does not create a new close-quarters situation. The chosen manoeuvre must result in passing at a safe distance, and its effectiveness must be checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.

Speed is also a control. When necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess, slacken speed, take all way off by stopping propulsion or reverse propulsion when appropriate to the vessel and conditions. This is not a rote instruction to stop in every encounter: sea room, following traffic, manoeuvrability, wind, current and the applicable give-way action still matter.