SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-rule-eight-clear-action

How should a Rule 8 action to avoid collision be made?

Make it positive, early, and readily apparent.

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  1. As several tiny changes
  2. Only at the last moment
  3. Positive and in ample time ✔

Why: Collision-avoidance action should be positive and made in ample time. Course or speed changes should be large enough for the other vessel to notice.

Huh, didn't know that: Rule 8 says to keep checking the action until the other vessel is finally past and clear.

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Rule 8 likes clear turns because hints are hard to see from another boat.
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References

Answer: Positive and in ample time. Collision-avoidance action should be positive and made in ample time. Course or speed changes should be large enough for the other vessel to notice.

  1. 33 CFR 83.08 Action to Avoid Collision Rule 8 www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/chapter-I/subchapter-E/part-83/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFRc711a0393c57020/section-83.08
    be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good seamanship
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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