The OOW's Response to Sighting $30^{\circ}$ to Starboard
When the Officer of the Watch (OOW) sights an object at a 30-degree angle to starboard, it triggers specific actions that are crucial for maintaining maritime safety. In this scenario, sounding five or more short and rapid blasts on the ship's whistle is essential as per international regulations. This serves as a signal to alert other vessels in the vicinity about potential risk. Following this initial action, it becomes imperative for the OOW to assess whether there is a risk of collision or if a close quarter situation is developing. This assessment involves considering factors such as speed, distance from the observed object, and its trajectory relative to our vessel’s course. In response to these observations and assessments, altering course towards port may be necessary depending on various navigational aspects including but not limited to traffic separation schemes or any local navigation rules applicable in that area. Additionally, increasing speed might also become part of mitigating measures based on further evaluation by taking into account maneuvering characteristics of both own ship and others around us. It should be noted that every decision made by an OOW must prioritize safety while adhering strictly with established maritime laws and best practices.