Rule 17 c states not to alter to port when a vessel is on your port side. What is the recommended action in this case?

• A. Alter to port
• B. Maintain course
• C. Alter to starboard
• D. Stop

Answer: (C)

When another vessel is on your port side, you must take action to avoid collision by turning to starboard (to the right). Turning toward the port side would drive you toward that vessel and risk a collision, while simply maintaining course does not reduce the danger. Stopping is not the normal or preferred response unless there’s absolutely no space to maneuver. By steering to starboard, you create separation and pass clear of the other vessel’s path. This aligns with the rule that the give-way vessel should take early and substantial action to avoid collision when the other vessel is on your port side.