SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-rule-seven-doubt

Under Rule 7, what if you doubt whether collision risk exists?

Treat the risk as existing.

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  1. Assume there is no risk
  2. Treat the risk as existing ✔
  3. Wait until the boats are close

Why: Rule 7 says every vessel must use all appropriate available means to assess collision risk. If doubt remains, act as though the risk exists.

Huh, didn't know that: A nearly steady compass bearing of an approaching vessel indicates collision risk.

The dad joke
The compass bearing stayed steady, so the skipper refused to wing it.
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References

Answer: Treat the risk as existing. Rule 7 says every vessel must use all appropriate available means to assess collision risk. If doubt remains, act as though the risk exists.

  1. 33 CFR 83.07 Risk of Collision Rule 7 www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/chapter-I/subchapter-E/part-83/subpart-B/section-83.07
    If there is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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