Give-Way vs. Stand-On: Who Yields, Who Holds?

When two boats risk colliding, the rules assign each a role. The give-way vessel is the one that must keep clear — it takes early, obvious action to avoid the other. The stand-on vessel has the right to hold its course and speed, so the give-way skipper can predict where it will be. This pairing removes the guessing game where both boats swerve the same way and make things worse.

The give-way vessel should act early and boldly (COLREGs Rule 16): a clear alteration of course or speed, made soon enough that the other skipper can see it. A tiny 5° nudge at the last second is dangerous — better to turn 30° so your intention is unmistakable. Usually you turn to pass behind the stand-on vessel (cross its stern), never try to sneak across its bow.

The stand-on vessel's job sounds passive but isn't: it must hold course and speed so it stays predictable (Rule 17). Crucially, if it becomes clear the give-way boat is not taking action, the stand-on vessel may — and eventually must — act to avoid collision. When it does, it should avoid turning toward the give-way vessel or toward its own port side for a boat on its beam.

Who is which depends on the earlier rules of who-meets-whom (overtaking, crossing, head-on) — the role isn't fixed to your boat, it changes with each encounter.