06/25/2026
Stand-on vessel = the boat that should maintain course and speed.
Give-way vessel = the boat that must slow down, turn, or otherwise keep clear.
Main rules
vs. sailboat
A sailboat under sail generally has priority over a motorboat.
The is usually the give-way vessel.
Exception: if the s is overtaking, the sailboat must give way.
Two powerboats crossing
If another boat is on your starboard/right side, you must give way.
If the other boat is on your /left side, you are usually the stand-on vessel.
Simple memory: comes from the right.
Head-on meeting
When two boats meet head-on, both should turn to right so they pass port-to-port.
The coming from behind is always the -way .
This applies whether it is a powerboat or .
At night
Seeing a light crossing in front of you means you are likely the -way vessel.
Seeing a green light crossing in front of you usually means you are the stand-on vessel.
Seeing both red and green ahead suggests a -on situation.
No right-of-way is absolute
Even the stand-on vessel must take action if the give-way vessel is not avoiding collision.
Every captain is responsible for keeping a , maintaining , and preventing .
