[dpmulvey]

+1 IMO, Stand-on and Give-way are about more than semantics - these terms help re-iterate the fact that we're always obligated to to take action to avoid a collision. They simply outline who takes action FIRST.

The fact that we're always obligated to to take action to avoid a collision is just that..... a fact. It is written out in Rule #8 which most regard as Rule #1. Confused yet? Beyond that, Stand on and give way are not semantics. They are law. If you think law in general is nuts, try maritime law. It's why there are so few maritime lawyers and why they make so much money.

 

[dpmulvey]

Here is a question: In a marina, who has the right of way? I have a 480 Sedan Bridge...I was pulling out of my slip and proceeded to spin my boat 180 degrees and was backing down so I could do a starboard side docking against our fuel dock. As I was spinning, a 20ft CC came from their slip and wanted to pass me to exit our marina. The CC was trying to get between me and the dock (why I'm not sure). My first thought was 3 blasts to indicate I was backing down, the second was to ask him to stand down (which I did). Once up against the dock, my harbor master told me that the smaller vessel had the right of way as they were exiting the marina. Is this true? I wanted some guidance.

Thanks.

"The Pecking Order"

From BoatUS as a simplified explanation of the rules. You were the stand on vessel. To determine right of way for vessels of different types. Get very familiar with this list, as it is important to understand it thoroughly. The uppermost vessel on the list has right-of-way (stand-on vessel) over any vessel (give-way vessel) below it on the list:

Overtaken vessel (top priority) Vessel not under command Vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver Vessel constrained by its draft Fishing vessel (commercial fishing or trawling but not trolling) Sailing vessel (engine not on) Power-driven vessel