You are aboard the give-way vessel in a crossing situation. What should you NOT do in obeying the Rules?

You are aboard the give-way vessel in a crossing situation. What should you NOT do in obeying the Rules?

• A. Cross ahead of the stand-on vessel
• B. Maintain course
• C. Slow down and give way
• D. Alter course to starboard

Answer: (A)

In a crossing situation, the give-way vessel must take early and substantial action to keep clear of the stand-on vessel. The stand-on vessel has the right of way and should maintain its course and speed. Crossing ahead of the stand-on vessel would violate that duty and create a real collision risk, since it would take the other vessel into the stand-on’s path. Therefore crossing in front is not permitted. The proper response is to slow down and/or alter course to starboard to pass clear of the stand-on vessel, ideally to pass behind it rather than in front.

In a crossing situation, the give-way vessel must take early and substantial action to keep clear of the stand-on vessel. The stand-on vessel has the right of way and should maintain its course and speed. Crossing ahead of the stand-on vessel would violate that duty and create a real collision risk, since it would take the other vessel into the stand-on’s path. Therefore crossing in front is not permitted. The proper response is to slow down and/or alter course to starboard to pass clear of the stand-on vessel, ideally to pass behind it rather than in front.