Final answer:
In a crossing situation on the water, your powerboat must yield or stay clear when the other powerboat is on your starboard (right) side, making your boat the give way vessel. The other powerboat is considered the stand-on vessel with the right of way.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of nautical regulations, when your powerboat is in a crossing situation with another powerboat and there is a risk of collision, the navigation rules (also known as right of way or COLREGs) determine which vessel is the give way vessel. Your powerboat is required to yield, or stay clear, if it encounters the other powerboat to its starboard (right) side; this means that your boat is the port or left side in the crossing situation.
The vessel approaching from the starboard side is considered the stand-on vessel and has the right of way, meaning your vessel must take action to avoid a collision by altering its course and speed or possibly coming to a stop if necessary.
It is crucial to remember that maintaining a proper lookout, safe speed, and being prepared to take evasive action are fundamental responsibilities of all boaters to ensure safety on the waters.