What is the precedence for determining visual fixes?

The precedence for determining visual fixes is primarily influenced by the angles at which the visual range can be established in relation to the vessel's position. The beam position allows for the best lateral view of other navigational aids and shore features, which provides a more accurate and effective visual fix. Visual fixes change with a vessel's orientation, and determining a fix using the beam takes advantage of the broadest field of view, enabling the navigator to use multiple points of reference simultaneously.

Following the beam, the bow position offers another good vantage point, especially for heading toward aids to navigation or other prominent features. It is not as effective as the beam position for broad situational awareness but is still valuable in assessing forward markers or dangers. The stern provides the least advantage for visual fixes because of counteracting perspectives and limited scope when surveying the angle of approach to navigation aids. As a result, the effective priority for determining visual fixes follows the sequence from where the most information can be gathered, beginning at the beam, then moving forward to the bow, and finally to the stern.