SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-stand-on-may-act

You're the stand-on boat, and the give-way boat clearly isn't moving out of your way. What may you do?

Take action yourself to avoid a collision.

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  1. Nothing; you must hold course no matter what
  2. Take action on your own to avoid a collision ✔
  3. Speed up so you pass first

Why: Rule 17 says the stand-on boat normally keeps course and speed, but it may act on its own once it's clear the give-way boat isn't doing what the Rules require.

Huh, didn't know that: Even when the stand-on boat acts, the give-way boat still has its duty to keep out of the way.

The dad joke
Why did the stand-on boat finally move? It got tired of waiting for the other guy to get the message.
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References

Answer: Take action on your own to avoid a collision. Rule 17 says the stand-on boat normally keeps course and speed, but it may act on its own once it's clear the give-way boat isn't doing what the Rules require.

  1. 33 CFR 83.17, Action by stand-on vessel (Rule 17) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.17
    may, however, take action to avoid collision by her maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes apparent
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Test yourself in the game

Boating & WaterWhen another boat must keep out of your way, what must your stand-on boat do?Boating & WaterThe give-way boat is so close that its action alone can't prevent a collision. What must the stand-on boat do?Boating & WaterA boat under 12 meters (39.4 feet) needn't carry a regulation whistle. What must it have?

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