CRI

CRI (Collision Risk Index) is a navigational risk value used to express how likely another vessel is to become a collision threat. It is typically derived from factors such as closest point of approach, time to closest approach, relative speed, bearing change, and the distance between vessels, then presented as a scale or alert level for the watchkeeper.

For boaters, CRI helps prioritise traffic in busy waters, at night, in poor visibility, or offshore where fatigue can reduce situational awareness. A rising CRI should prompt an early check of CPA, visual bearings, AIS targets, and Radar returns before making a clear, rule-compliant alteration of course or speed.

CRI is not a substitute for COLREGs, lookout, or sound seamanship; it is decision support. When onboard instruments, GPS, and AIS are integrated through systems such as PredictWind DataHub, cleaner vessel data can improve tracking awareness and help crews review traffic, routes, and safety margins.