On open waters, a power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of which vessel?

• A. Sailing vessel
• B. Power-driven vessel
• C. Fishing vessel
• D. Vessel not under command

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that in the COLREGs a power-driven vessel must give way to a sailing vessel. Sailing vessels rely on wind and can’t maneuver as readily as a motorized vessel, especially when sails are set and wind conditions limit quick changes in direction or speed. To avoid collisions, the power-driven vessel should take early and substantial action to stay clear of the sailing vessel, adjusting speed or course as needed so the sailing vessel has safe passage.

Other options don’t represent the general duty in this scenario: a power-driven vessel is not universally required to keep out of the way of another power-driven vessel (crossing scenarios depend on relative courses), and vessels engaged in fishing or vessels not under command are governed by different parts of the rules.