Final answer:
In encounters between power-driven vessels, actions are governed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Both vessels may need to communicate and maneuver to avoid collision, with one vessel typically being the 'give way' vessel that should alter course or speed to prevent an incident.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two power-driven vessels meet on the water, the actions they should take are dictated by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). These are rules to ensure safe navigation and to avoid collisions. For example, when two power-driven vessels are meeting head-on or nearly head-on, each shall alter course to starboard (to the right) so that they will pass on the port side (left side) of each other. If one vessel needs to take action, it is referred to as the give way vessel, and the other is the stand-on vessel which should maintain its course and speed.
In the scenario provided, without specifics, if both vessels are in open water with risk of collision, and it's not a situation of overtaking, crossing, or head-on encounter as defined by COLREGs, typically both vessels should attempt to communicate and agree on maneuvering decisions. However, if one vessel is specified or understood to be the give way vessel, then that vessel should make clear its intentions and act to avoid collision, often by altering course or speed as necessary. Simply put, communication is key along with the understanding of right-of-way rules.