Final answer:
A powerboat must act as the give way vessel when crossing paths with a sailboat to prevent collisions and maintain safety on the water.
Step-by-step explanation:
When boating, the give way vessel is required to yield to the stand on vessel in certain situations to prevent collisions and maintain safety on the water.
One example of when a powerboat must act as the give way vessel is when crossing paths with a sailboat.
For instance, if a powerboat is approaching a sailboat on a collision course, the powerboat must yield and change its course, allowing the sailboat to maintain its course and speed. This is because sailboats have limited maneuverability compared to powerboats and rely on the wind for propulsion.
By yielding to the sailboat, the powerboat ensures that both vessels can safely pass each other without the risk of a collision. It is always important for boaters to understand and follow the rules of navigation to avoid accidents and promote boating safety.