In a crossing situation between two power vessels, which vessel is required to give way?

In a crossing situation between two power vessels, the vessel that is on the left is required to give way to the vessel that is on the right. This is based on the "International Rules of the Road," which establish that when two power-driven vessels are crossing paths, the vessel that has the other to its right side is the stand-on vessel and has the right of way. The vessel that has the other on its left must take action to avoid a collision.

This rule is designed to prevent confusion in navigation and promote safety on the water by creating a clear protocol for which vessel should yield. The larger vessel does not automatically have the right of way; rules prioritize relative position over size. Additionally, in certain cases, neither vessel may be required to give way if they are on parallel courses. However, in a typical crossing situation, the clear precedence is established by the relative positions of the vessels involved, supporting the need for the vessel on the left to yield.