What is the primary value of knowing the "bearing" of another vessel?

Knowing the "bearing" of another vessel is crucial for safe navigation, as it helps a boat operator understand the direction from which another vessel is approaching and how close it is. This information is vital in preventing potential collisions and ensuring that maneuvers are made safely.

When you know the bearing, you can make informed decisions about adjusting your course or speed to maintain a safe distance from the other vessel. This is particularly important in busy waterways where many vessels may be present. Such strategic navigation helps to facilitate smooth traffic on the water and minimizes the risk of accidents.

Understanding the bearing is not directly related to determining a vessel's size, speed, or type, which are useful for other reasons but do not provide the immediate navigational information needed for ensuring safety while on the water.