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Rule 15

Crossing situation

In sight of one another

Power crossing power: the vessel that has the other on her starboard side gives way — and avoids crossing ahead.

Crossing situation, Rule 15Your power-driven vessel heads up the page. Another power-driven vessel approaches from your starboard side, heading across your course. You are marked GIVE WAY in amber with a curved arrow turning to starboard to pass astern of her. She is marked STAND ON in green and holds her course and speed.on your starboard bowpass asternYOU — GIVE WAYturn starboard, don’t cross aheadSTAND ONholds course and speed
Rule 15 — power-driven vessels crossing: the vessel that has the other on her own starboard side gives way. Turn to starboard and pass astern — avoid crossing ahead.

In plain language

When two power-driven vessels cross with risk of collision, the one that has the other on her own starboard side is the give-way vessel. Give way early — and if circumstances allow, do not cross ahead of the other vessel; the standard move is to alter to starboard and pass astern. Remember this rule is only for power-driven versus power-driven: sail, fishing, and the Rule 18 hierarchy change the answer.

This rule differs under the US Inland Rules. Change the rule set in language and regional settings to see the difference.

Easily confused with