Question 1

Two power-driven vessels are in sight of one another and crossing so as to involve risk of collision. Which vessel is the give-way vessel?

Accepted Answer

The vessel with the other on her starboard side. Rule 15: when two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and, if the circumstances admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel. This rule applies to vessels in sight of one another. Under Rule 17, the stand-on vessel initially maintains course and speed, but may take action when the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action and must act when collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel's action alone.

Question 2

Rule 15 (crossing situations) applies to which types of vessel?

Accepted Answer

Two power-driven vessels crossing with collision risk; sailing vessels use Rule 12. Rule 15 applies when two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision: the vessel which has the other on her starboard side must keep out of the way and, if circumstances admit, avoid crossing ahead. Two sailing vessels use Rule 12. Responsibilities between power-driven and sailing vessels are covered by Rule 18, subject to Rules 9, 10 and 13.

Question 3

Two power-driven vessels A and B are crossing. B has A on her starboard bow. Which vessel gives way?

Accepted Answer

B gives way under Rule 15 because she has A on her starboard side.. RULE 15 CROSSING: the vessel which has the other on her STARBOARD SIDE is the give-way vessel. B has A on her starboard, B gives way. A is the stand-on vessel (A has B on her PORT side). Memory: 'give way to vessels on your starboard side.' B should take early and substantial action, alter to starboard to pass astern of A, or slow down. A maintains course and speed unless B fails to act, in which case A may act under Rule 17.

Rule 15, questions and explanations

Two power-driven vessels are in sight of one another and crossing so as to involve risk of collision. Which vessel is the give-way vessel?

Rule 15 (crossing situations) applies to which types of vessel?

Two power-driven vessels A and B are crossing. B has A on her starboard bow. Which vessel gives way?

Practise this properly

Rule 15, questions and explanations

Questions

Two power-driven vessels are in sight of one another and crossing so as to involve risk of collision. Which vessel is the give-way vessel?

Rule 15 (crossing situations) applies to which types of vessel?

Two power-driven vessels A and B are crossing. B has A on her starboard bow. Which vessel gives way?

Practise this properly