What must every vessel maintain to avoid collisions?

Every vessel must maintain a safe speed appropriate to the circumstances to avoid collisions. This principle is embedded in the COLREGs to ensure that vessels can take timely and effective action to avoid any potential hazards. A safe speed is considered one that allows a vessel to stop or take evasive action in time to prevent an accident, taking into account factors such as visibility, traffic density, weather conditions, and the maneuverability of the vessel itself.

By adjusting speed according to the environment and the presence of other vessels, mariners can enhance their ability to respond swiftly to unforeseen circumstances, such as encountering another vessel or navigating through congested waters. This flexibility in speed regulation is crucial for safe navigation and collision avoidance, as static speeds or those dictated solely by external authorities could compromise safety in rapidly changing situations at sea.