What is the general principle for collision avoidance when two vessels are power-driven on crossing paths?

• A. The stand-on vessel must always avoid.
• B. Both vessels must immediately stop.
• C. Each vessel assesses risk and takes early action; the give-way vessel acts to avoid.
• D. The vessel on the port side has priority.

Answer: (C)

In these crossing-path situations, the emphasis is on proactive safety: both vessels continuously assess the risk of collision and act early to keep the passage safe. The vessel that has to take action to avoid is the give-way vessel, and it should make a clear maneuver to steer clear of the other vessel. This approach prevents last-minute, abrupt changes and keeps expectations predictable for both crews. The stand-on vessel should maintain its course and speed unless it becomes clear that the other vessel is not taking appropriate action; then it, too, may need to adjust. This balance—risk assessment by both and early, decisive avoidance by the give-way vessel—best achieves collision avoidance without relying on one vessel to always stop or on rigid right-of-way rules.