What is the greatest indicator of collision risk?

Bearing drift is the greatest indicator of collision risk because it directly reflects changes in the relative positions and motion of vessels in proximity. When monitoring bearing drift, a significant change in the bearing of another vessel indicates that you may be on a collision course. This allows the watch officer to assess potential risks and make timely navigational decisions to avoid collisions.

Understanding bearing drift involves recognizing that as vessels approach one another, the relative angle at which they are observed will change. If a vessel’s bearing is consistent while both vessels are moving, it suggests that they are on a collision trajectory, necessitating immediate action. Failure to monitor and respond to bearing drift can lead to dangerous situations, as it is a critical factor in determining safe passage and maintaining situational awareness.

In contrast, while the speed of the vessel, traffic density, and weather conditions can all influence navigation and safety, they do not provide the same direct measure of the imminent risk of collision as bearing drift does. Therefore, focusing on and understanding bearing drift is vital for effective navigational practice aboard the Fast Response Cutter.