Patterns in Encounters Between Ships

Extract

I would take issue with Spooner on his article in the April 1974 issue of the Journal. On a clear night, with no navigational hazards, a ship is reported at green 30, three miles! An assessment is made and decision to alter course to starboard is ordered. In this time the approaching vessel has made her own decision and altered course to port. Why therefore is the approaching vessel criticized for a port alteration? in my opinion she, the ‘stand on vessel’, has taken such action as to avoid collision without bringing on a close-quarters situation. On such a clear night the approaching vessel must have been visible for at least ten miles and at that range would have been showing all her lights, a clear case for an alteration to starboard on the part of Spooner's vessel to pass clear of the other vessel port to port. Was a lookout being kept at all?