When two vessels are on a crossing course, which vessel typically has the right of way?

• A. The vessel on the other vessel's starboard side has the right of way.
• B. The stand-on vessel has the right of way.
• C. The vessel on the port side has the right of way.
• D. The overtaking vessel has the right of way.

Answer: (A)

In crossing situations, the vessel that is on the other vessel’s starboard side has the right of way. That means the boat to the right of the other boat—the starboard vessel—has priority and the other vessel must take action to avoid a collision by slowing down or altering course. This rule, from the crossing scenarios of the navigation rules, creates a clear, predictable path for both vessels.

So, the vessel on the other vessel’s starboard side is the one with the right of way; the other vessel is the one that must give way. The stand-on vessel concept applies, but only to the vessel that does not have the other on its starboard side. And overtaking involves a different rule set entirely, not the crossing scenario described here.