When crossing paths what is the give-way vessel responsibility

Subject : Law

Question: When crossing paths, what is the give-way vessel’s responsibility?

a. Maintain course and increase speed

b. Slow down or change course

c. Use hand signals to communicate to the other vessel

d. Turn around and go the other way

Expert Verified Solution:

When crossing paths, the give-way vessel’s responsibility is:

B) Slow down or change course

The give-way vessel must take early and clear action to avoid a collision by either slowing down, changing course, or both. The objective is to pass at a safe distance from the stand-on vessel, which should maintain its course and speed. The give-way vessel should not maintain course and increase speed, use hand signals (option C), or turn around completely (option D), as these actions could increase the risk of collision or confusion on the water.