Module 5 - COLREGs

Stand-On and Give-Way Obligations

Rule 16 (Give-way vessel): Must take early and substantial action to keep well clear.

Rule 17 (Stand-on vessel): Must maintain course and speed. However, if the give-way vessel is not taking action, the stand-on vessel may (and eventually must) take action to avoid collision. The stand-on vessel should not alter course to port for a vessel on her port side.

Key points

  • Give-way vessel: act early and substantially
  • Stand-on vessel: maintain course and speed initially
  • Stand-on vessel MUST act if give-way vessel doesn't
  • Stand-on: avoid altering to port for vessel on port side

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