Kecelakaan kapal di alur pelayaran sempit mayoritas disebabkan oleh faktor kesalahan manusia (human error) dalam operasional navigasi dan olah gerak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis prosedur dan teknik olah gerak kapal yang tepat saat melintasi alur sempit guna menjamin keselamatan navigasi dan mencegah bahaya tubrukan. Pendekatan yang digunakan adalah metode kualitatif deskriptif. Pengumpulan data primer dilakukan melalui observasi langsung di lapangan dan wawancara terstruktur dengan pihak-pihak yang terlibat langsung dalam kegiatan navigasi dan pemanduan kapal. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa potensi tubrukan di alur sempit utamanya dipicu oleh rendahnya pemahaman terhadap aturan pencegahan tubrukan di laut (COLREG), khususnya saat melakukan manuver penyusulan (overtaking) dan berpapasan (passing). Selain itu, komunikasi yang tidak efektif antara pandu (pilot) dan nakhoda (master), serta kondisi lingkungan perairan seperti arus yang kuat dan keterbatasan lebar alur, secara signifikan meningkatkan eskalasi risiko navigasi. Kesimpulannya, sinergi komunikasi di atas anjungan dan kepatuhan penuh terhadap regulasi navigasi sangat krusial untuk meminimalisasi insiden di alur pelayaran sempit.

Ship accidents in narrow shipping channels are predominantly caused by human errors in navigation and maneuvering operations. This study aims to analyze the proper operational procedures and ship maneuvering techniques when navigating narrow channels to ensure navigational safety and prevent collisions. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with primary data gathered through direct field observations and structured interviews with key personnel directly involved in navigation and pilotage operations. The findings indicate that the potential for collisions in narrow channels is primarily triggered by a lack of understanding of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), particularly during overtaking and passing maneuvers. Furthermore, ineffective communication between the pilot and the master, compounded by environmental factors such as strong currents and limited channel width, significantly escalates the risk of navigational hazards. In conclusion, effective bridge team synergy and strict compliance with navigational regulations are crucial to minimizing incidents in narrow shipping channels.