In a head-on situation, what is the recommended turning direction for both vessels?

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In a head-on situation the safest, standard action is for both vessels to alter course to starboard. Turning to starboard means steering to your right, and as both vessels do this, you pass each other on the port sides (port to port). This mirrored, coordinated maneuver creates a predictable separation and minimizes the risk of crossing into each other’s paths. Maintaining your course would keep you on a collision course, and turning to port could place you into the other vessel’s path or create confusion about who should maneuver. So, both vessels turning to starboard is the correct, risk-reducing response.