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Sailing reference
Clear explanations of the language used in navigation, pilotage, weather, safety and life under sail.
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The giving-way boat must act early and decisively
Every vessel directed to keep out of the way of another must, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear. Read with the action-to-avoid-collision rule, this means an alteration large enough to be obvious on the other vessel's radar and to the naked eye, taken while the range is still open. A last-minute nudge that passes the other vessel close aboard, even without contact, does not satisfy the requirement.
Read definition →The right-of-way boat holds course, then acts if needed
The stand-on vessel keeps her course and speed, but may take action to avoid collision by her manoeuvre alone as soon as it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action. When collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel's action alone, the stand-on vessel must take such action as will best aid avoidance. A stand-on power-driven vessel taking early permissive action must not alter to port for a vessel on her own port side.
Read definition →The pecking order of who gives way to whom
Except where the narrow channel, traffic separation and overtaking rules require otherwise, a power-driven vessel keeps clear of a vessel not under command, one restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, one engaged in fishing, and a sailing vessel. A sailing vessel keeps clear of the first three. A vessel engaged in fishing keeps clear of the first two. A vessel constrained by her draught has its own qualified status, and seaplanes and WIG craft keep well clear generally.
Sailing reference
Clear explanations of the language used in navigation, pilotage, weather, safety and life under sail.