Stand-On & Give-Way in Boating

We start with one vital and basic nomenclature. Worldwide, what is commonly and linguistically referred to as "Right of Way" on the land doesn't exist on the water (with the exception of "Racing Rules of Sailing"). Instead, the term "Stand-On" replaces "Right of Way". On land, we have very strict lanes to remain in and very strict intersection rules which give rise to easily being able to determine who has the rights at any point. Now imagine 100,000 cars all going in different directions at 100 km/hr on the salt flats of Utah. Well ... let's just say it wouldn't happen for long. It would be mayhem! Thus, on the water, things are a little different. Fortunately, most of the time, the speed is less and the prudent and aware captain has time to make the proper decision according to the world-recognized rules for water traffic.  The technical difference then, between Stand-On and Right of Way is that the vessel who is NOT in the Give-Way position must act predictably in the eyes of the Give-Way vessel. I.E. the Stand-On vessel is first required to maintain course and speed (Stand-On) so that the Give-Way vessel can plot a safe crossing course. If collision becomes imminent, the Stand-On vessel is then REQUIRED to take all actions possible to avoid collision. Thus, it is at this point that the Stand-On vessel technically doesn't have "rights" over the Give-Way vessel and thus the deletion of the term "Right of Way" on the water. But what is Give-Way? It is clear inside the rules. If you are to Give-Way, you must keep clear of the other vessel and you must not impede its ability to continue to safely operate on its passage. So to summarize this then: in any situation, you will either be the Stand-On vessel or the Give-Way vessel. If you are the Give-Way vessel you must take visibly obvious and early actions to allow the Stand-On vessel to know that by continuing current course and speed there will be no possibility of collision. If you are the Stand-On vessel you should initially hold course and speed but it is still your final responsibility to prevent collision. #sailing #sailor #sailingschool #boating #yacht