In a crossing situation, which vessel generally has the right of way?

In a crossing situation, the vessel that is designated as the stand-on vessel generally has the right of way. This means that the stand-on vessel is expected to maintain its course and speed when encountering another vessel that is crossing its path. The rationale behind this guideline is rooted in maritime navigation principles, which are designed to promote safety and prevent collisions.

The stand-on vessel's status indicates that it is in a position where it has the right to continue navigating without making significant alterations to its course or speed. This helps to establish clear expectations for the operators of both vessels involved, as the give-way vessel is required to take action to avoid a collision, either by altering its course or speed.

This framework relies on the understanding that certain vessels may inherently be better equipped or designed to maintain a steady course during a crossing, while other vessels may have limitations in terms of maneuverability. By designating one vessel as the stand-on entity, it streamlines the decision-making process during potentially hazardous situations.

The other options do not accurately represent the general maritime rules pertaining to right-of-way in crossing situations. While the give-way vessel must yield, the larger vessel or a vessel with less maneuverability may have considerations in different contexts, such as navigating in congested waters