Which vessel is required to take early and substantial action to avoid another boat?

The requirement for a vessel to take early and substantial action to avoid another boat is placed on the give-way vessel. This designation indicates that the vessel must yield to the stand-on vessel to avoid collisions. The concept of give-way is rooted in the "Rules of the Road," which govern navigation and help prevent accidents on the water.

In situations where two vessels are approaching, the give-way vessel must take proactive measures, such as altering its course or speed, to allow the stand-on vessel to maintain its path. This is essential for maintaining safe navigation on the waterways, as it ensures clarity about which vessel is responsible for avoiding a collision.

In contrast, the stand-on vessel has the right of way and should maintain its course and speed while the give-way vessel takes necessary actions to avoid it. Power vessels and sailing vessels can either be a give-way or stand-on vessel depending on the specific circumstances of their encounter with another vessel. Thus, knowing which vessel has the obligation to yield is crucial for safe boating practices.