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): initially keeps course and speed, may act when it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action, and must take the action that best avoids collision when collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel alone. In a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels, a stand-on vessel acting under Rule 17(a)(ii) should, if circumstances allow, avoid altering to port for a vessel on her own port side.