In restricted visibility, what action should you take when approaching another vessel?

• A. Reduce speed only.
• B. Approach from behind to stay unseen.
• C. Maintain full speed and signal constantly.
• D. Reduce speed, maintain a proper lookout, and use standard sound and light signals per COLREGS; contact via VHF if needed.

Answer: (D)

In restricted visibility, safe navigation depends on acting predictably and communicating clearly. You should reduce your speed to a safe, manageable pace so you have time to detect and react to any risk. Maintain a proper lookout at all times, using eyes, ears, and any operating equipment to monitor for other vessels. Rely on the standard sound and light signals prescribed by the COLREGS to indicate your presence and intentions, so other vessels can understand what you’re doing even when visibility is poor. If needed, contact the other vessel via VHF to coordinate passage and avoid a collision.

This approach is better because it combines prudent speed, vigilant observation, and clear communication, which together reduce the chance of collisions in low visibility. Reducing speed alone omits essential communication; approaching from behind to stay unseen is unsafe and not permitted; continuing at full speed with signals alone ignores the necessity of a proper lookout and direct coordination.