Who holds the responsibility for avoiding collisions at sea?

The responsibility for avoiding collisions at sea lies with the person in charge of each ship, which generally refers to the captain or master of the vessel. Under the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), it is emphasized that the person in charge is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel and must take action to avoid collisions. This includes assessing situations, making decisions, and determining the course and speed to ensure safe passage.

While it’s true that the captain has ultimate authority and responsibility, the wording clearly indicates that the responsibility is collectively held by those in charge, which typically means the captain along with other officers who may be present and actively engaged in watchkeeping. This collaborative effort is crucial because a vessel's safe navigation is often a team responsibility that involves various crew members, especially when considering tasks related to lookout, communications, and operational commands.

The other options suggest a narrower interpretation of responsibility, focusing solely on individuals like the captain or specific roles such as the navigator, which does not reflect the broader scope of collective responsibility outlined in the regulations.