When leaving a Traffic Separation Scheme, what is the correct approach?

• A. Leave only when it can be done safely and with proper justification, avoiding interference with traffic flow.
• B. Leave immediately to shorten travel time.
• C. Turn back to enter the scheme again.
• D. Ignore traffic flow and proceed on current course.

Answer: (A)

Leaving a Traffic Separation Scheme should be done only when you can do so safely and without forcing other vessels to change course or slow down unnecessarily. The guidance is to exit the scheme with proper justification and in a way that keeps traffic flow smooth and predictable for others. This emphasizes prudent seamanship: avoid creating confusion or hazards for vessels inside or approaching the TSS, and ensure you have sufficient sea room and a safe maneuver path before exiting.

Rushing out to save time or turning back to re-enter, or ignoring traffic flow, all create potential conflicts with other vessels and contradict the purpose of the TSS as a structured, predictable corridor. So the safest, most responsible approach is to depart only when it can be done safely and with justification, minimizing any interference with traffic.