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The compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change

The compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change

  • Description of scenario: Vessel A: Power-driven vessel
    Vessel B: Power-driven vessel
    Area: On the high seas
    Visibility: Good (Vessels in sight of one another)
    Vessel A and vessel B are crossing
    Vessel A has vessel B on her own starboard side (relative bearing STBD 054°)
    No change in bearing taken at interval of time, CPA=0
  • Rule(s) to be applied: Rule 7 (Risk of collision)
  • Applying the Rule(s) and comments: In accordance with Rule 7 (Risk of collision), risk of collision shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change.
    Comments:
    If the bearing (compass or relative) taken visually or with radar at interval of time does not appreciable change, than the risk of collision shall be deemed to exist.
    How often to take bearing from other vessel depends on situation (range between vessels, vessels relative speed, area of navigation, vessels characteristics, navigational equipment, visibility).
    To be able to decide if a risk of collision exists, bearing on the other vessel should be taken as soon as it is sighted and then repeated in appropriate intervals. In open water, bearing should be taken as soon as it comes over the horizon. It is advisable not to wait until the vessel is close before starting to take bearings.
  • Bird’s-eye view:

    © Transas Marine International

  • Bridge view (from vessel A):

    © Transas Marine International

  • Radar screen view (on vessel A):

    © Transas Marine International

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This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.