In a crossing situation, how should the stand-on vessel respond?

• A. Alter course to starboard.
• B. Maintain course and speed unless risk develops.
• C. Sound the whistle continuously.
• D. Prepare to reverse engines.

Answer: (B)

In a crossing situation, the stand-on vessel keeps its course and speed to preserve its intended path, while the other vessel (the give-way vessel) takes early and substantial action to avoid a collision. The stand-on vessel only deviates if it becomes clear that a risk of collision exists, at which point it should take appropriate action to prevent a collision.

So the correct approach is to maintain course and speed unless risk develops. Altering course to starboard would interrupt the stand-on’s obligation to keep its established course unless collision risk requires it. Continuous whistle signaling isn’t the standard response in this scenario, and preparing to reverse engines is not the default action—those steps are only appropriate if risk actually materializes and avoidance is needed.