In a crossing situation between two power-driven vessels, who must yield?

• A. The vessel on the other’s port side yields.
• B. The vessel with the higher speed yields.
• C. The vessel on the other’s starboard side yields.
• D. The vessel closer to shore yields.

Answer: (C)

In a crossing between two power-driven vessels, you must yield to any vessel that is on your starboard side. This means the vessel that has the other boat to its right (starboard) is the one that must give way. So if another vessel is appearing on your starboard, you should take early and substantial action to avoid a collision, while the other vessel, being on your starboard, has the right of way and can maintain course if it’s safe.

This rule isn’t about speed, proximity to shore, or which vessel is on the left; it’s strictly about starboard relative position. If the other vessel is on your starboard, you yield to it. If it isn’t, the other vessel would yield to you if you’re on its starboard.