Final answer:
In a collision risk situation at sea, the give-way vessel must act to avoid a collision, following the rules set by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
Step-by-step explanation:
When there is a risk of collision between two vessels, nautical rules dictate which vessel has the responsibility to give way. The vessel required to keep out of the way is known as the give-way vessel, while the other is referred to as the stand-on vessel. These terms come from the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), whereby different scenarios dictate which vessel has the responsibility to act to avoid a collision. It is important to understand that these situations may vary depending on whether a vessel is under power, under sail, or if there are other factors such as restricted visibility or navigation in narrow channels.
The give-way vessel is responsible for taking early and substantial action to steer clear of the other vessel. It must yield the right of way and alter its course or speed to avoid a potential collision. The stand-on vessel, on the other hand, has the right of way and should maintain its course and speed, unless it becomes clear that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision.
For example, if a sailboat is approaching a powerboat from the starboard side, the powerboat is the give-way vessel and should steer clear of the sailboat to avoid a collision.