This post we are discussing what action a STAND-ON vessel must take.

Sometimes a vessel that should be taking action to avoid a COLLISION will for many reasons not realize that a COLLISION is imminent.

Then the vessel that actually should be proceding as planned will have to be the one that takes the required action to avoid the collision!

This is why SITUATIONAL AWARENESS is so important!

If it is a situation with two POWERBOATS then the first one shall not alter course to PORT for a vessel on her PORT side. The GIVE-WAY vessel still must keep out of the way.

As this definitely confusing it might be helpful to discuss what the International Rules of the Road say about both a GIVE-WAY and STAND-ON vessel.

A GIVE-WAY vessel is one that has to keep out of the way. A STAND-ON vessel is the other vessel.

A STAND-ON vessel should continue on its course and maintain its speed. This enables the GIVE-WAY vessel to take the proper evasive action.

Hugh Simpson