To avoid collisions, a vessel should:

Reducing speed to bare steerageway is the most effective action to avoid collisions because it allows for better control of the vessel. At bare steerageway, the vessel is still moving but at a slow enough speed to maintain steering capability, making it easier to assess the situation and react accordingly. This level of speed provides the operator with more time to make decisions and maneuver, while also minimizing the force of any impact should a collision occur.

In contrast, turning sharply could result in a loss of control or cause the vessel to heel excessively, which may not effectively avoid a collision. Increasing speed may seem counterintuitive as it actually reduces reaction time and the ability to steer effectively. Anchoring could leave the vessel in a dangerous position if others are navigating in close proximity, as it may not allow for maneuverability when a collision is imminent. Thus, maintaining bare steerageway is the safest and most practical approach in collision avoidance situations.