Alabama Boating License Practice Test 2025 - Free Boating License Practice Questions and Study Guide

When another vessel approaches from your right, changing course to avoid a potential collision is the most appropriate action. This response is grounded in the navigational rules that prioritize safety on the water. The "give way" rules indicate that when two vessels are on a collision course, the one that has the other to its right is typically the stand-on vessel, meaning it should maintain its course and speed. However, when it becomes clear that a collision may happen, taking action—such as changing course—is the safest option to prevent an accident.

Maintaining your course and speed can be risky if the other vessel does not also take appropriate action, leading to a higher potential for collision. Signaling the other vessel to pass may not be effective if they are not aware of your intention or if they cannot safely maneuver. Similarly, giving way to a vessel on your left does not apply in this scenario because you need to prioritize safety by altering your course to avoid the approaching vessel on your right. Thus, adjusting your course is the safest and most responsible course of action in this situation.