In COLREGs, what does 'keep well clear' imply?

• A. Maintain a safe distance and a substantial margin to avoid collision.
• B. Always yield to the other vessel.
• C. Keep your current course regardless.
• D. Increase speed to pass first.

Answer: (A)

In COLREGs, keep well clear means you must maintain a safe separation from other vessels, with a substantial margin that allows you to take effective action to avoid a collision. It’s a proactive standard: you adjust your speed or course to ensure you have room to maneuver and respond if the other vessel changes course or speed. It isn’t about who yields, keeping your current course, or racing to pass first. You keep enough distance so that, under all foreseeable circumstances (speed, maneuverability, weather, visibility, and traffic), there’s no risk of collision and you can stop or turn if needed.