What action is required if two vessels are approaching at risk of collision?

In situations where two vessels are approaching each other and there is a risk of collision, the navigating rules clearly dictate that one vessel must give way to the other. This is a fundamental principle of the "Rules of the Road," often referred to as the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

The obligation for one vessel to give way helps prevent accidents by establishing clear responsibilities between vessels. In most scenarios, the vessel that is overtaking another must give way. Additionally, if two power-driven vessels are on a collision course, typically one vessel will be required to alter its course or speed to avoid the other. This essential rule promotes safety and navigational predictability on the water.

The other options do not align with the established protocols for collision avoidance. Sounding whistles all around would not effectively prevent a collision and could even lead to confusion. Simply maintaining course without considering the other vessel’s actions could lead to disaster, while increasing speed does not inherently resolve the risk of collision and might exacerbate the situation. Therefore, the requirement that one vessel must give way is critical for safe navigation.