What is essential for a vessel to navigate with when there is a risk of collision?

Navigating with extreme caution is crucial when there is a risk of collision. This principle aligns with the fundamental tenets of safe boating practices and the COLREGs. When a vessel is operating in conditions where a collision could occur, the operator must be vigilant, observing not only their surroundings but also the actions of other vessels. This means adjusting speed, course, and maneuverability based on situational awareness, including factors like visibility, weather conditions, and traffic density.

Caution involves actively assessing risks and taking necessary precautions to avoid accidents. It embodies the need to prioritize safety over speed or technological reliance. While confidence in visibility is important and maintaining a safe speed is essential, these aspects are part of exercising caution, rather than constituents on their own. Moreover, reliance exclusively on electronic systems can be detrimental, as it may lead to complacency and a lack of situational awareness that is crucial in dynamic environments. Thus, the principle of extreme caution encapsulates the proactive approach needed to prevent collisions effectively.