In a head-on situation, what is the required course alteration for both vessels involved?

In a head-on situation at sea, both vessels must take actions to avoid a collision, and the appropriate maneuver is for each vessel to alter course to starboard. This is guided by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 14, which states that when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses, each vessel should alter its course to starboard. This maneuver ensures that the vessels pass clear of one another by keeping them on parallel paths after the turn, thus minimizing the risk of collision.

The requirement for both vessels to alter to starboard is based on maintaining a standard maneuvering protocol to enhance safety on the water. By both turning to starboard, the vessels create a predictable and coordinated approach to each other, reducing confusion and improving overall navigational safety.

Other options suggest either course alterations by only one vessel or no alteration at all, which do not align with the regulations intended to prevent collisions in these specific circumstances.