Legal Definitions - steady course

In maritime law, a steady course refers to a vessel's path that is clear, predictable, and easily understood by other vessels. This predictability allows others to anticipate the vessel's future movements and take appropriate actions to avoid a collision. A vessel is considered to be on a steady course if it is maintaining a consistent direction and speed, or if its changes in direction or speed are discernible and follow an obvious pattern.

Here are some examples illustrating a "steady course":

• Example 1: Transoceanic Cargo Ship

  A large container ship is traversing the open Atlantic Ocean, maintaining a constant speed of 20 knots and a compass heading of 090 degrees (due east) for an extended period. Other ships observing this vessel can readily ascertain its future positions because its speed and direction are unchanging. This allows them to plot a safe course to pass or cross ahead without risk of collision.

• Example 2: Ferry in a Marked Channel

  A passenger ferry is navigating a clearly marked river channel that includes a significant bend. As it approaches the bend, the ferry begins a wide, consistent turn to follow the channel, maintaining a steady speed throughout the maneuver. Even though the ferry is changing its direction, its path is predictable because it is adhering to the defined channel and executing the turn in a consistent manner. Other vessels familiar with the channel can anticipate its trajectory.

• Example 3: Survey Vessel in a Grid Pattern

  A hydrographic survey vessel is conducting seabed mapping in a designated area of a bay. It moves slowly and methodically in a series of parallel lines, covering the area in a precise grid pattern. While not on a single straight heading, the vessel's movements are deliberate, consistent, and clearly indicative of its operational task. Other vessels in the bay can observe this repetitive pattern and understand its intended path and future positions within the survey area, allowing them to navigate safely around it.