What should the stand on vessel do in a crossing situation?

In a crossing situation, the stand-on vessel has the responsibility to maintain its course and speed. This principle is rooted in the navigation rules designed to prevent collisions. The stand-on vessel is typically the one that has the right of way, meaning it is expected to continue on its current path without making any abrupt changes.

By maintaining its course and speed, the stand-on vessel allows the give-way vessel to take the appropriate action to avoid a collision. This understanding is crucial for ensuring predictability in navigation, as other vessels can anticipate the actions of the stand-on vessel and adjust their movements accordingly.

Changing course or speed might introduce uncertainty and increase the risk of an accident, especially if the give-way vessel misjudges the maneuver. Therefore, adhering to this rule is vital for safe boating practices and is part of what operators must know in order to ensure safe navigation on the water.