You are a PDV, and RAM Towing is on your port bow, crossing from port to starboard. What is the recommended action?

• A. Pass behind the RAM Towing on its port side
• B. Continue on your original course and rely on the RAM Towing to adjust
• C. Take early and substantial action and pass ahead at a safe distance, keeping your starboard side clear
• D. Stop engines and wait for RAM Towing to pass

Answer: (C)

In a crossing situation, you must take action to avoid a collision rather than rely on the other vessel to move. When RAM Towing is on your port bow, you are the vessel that needs to adjust to ensure a safe clearance, especially since the other vessel is approaching from ahead on your left.

The recommended maneuver is to take early and substantial action and pass ahead of RAM at a safe distance, keeping your starboard side clear. This means altering course now so you go in front of RAM rather than behind or into RAM’s path, with a generous margin to stay clear of RAM’s starboard side as you pass. Sticking to your original course or stopping and waiting could allow the risk of collision to grow, and waiting for RAM to move is not the prudent choice in a crossing where timely maneuvering is essential.