Question 87 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is A) You must keep out of the way of the other vessel. This is because under both the International and Inland Navigation Rules, the vessel that is making way under sail (your vessel) is the "give-way" vessel and must take early and substantial action to keep well clear of the other vessel, which is the "stand-on" vessel. Since the other vessel is dead ahead on a meeting course, you must maneuver to avoid a collision, as the other vessel is not required to take any action. The other answer choices are incorrect because B) only the other vessel must maneuver is wrong, C) both vessels must maneuver is incorrect as only the give-way vessel has the obligation to maneuver, and D) you are only required to maneuver if collision cannot be avoided by the other vessel contradicts the clear rules on give-way and stand-on vessels.