Legal Definitions - give way

In maritime law, to give way means that a vessel must take specific action, such as changing its course or reducing its speed, in accordance with established navigation rules. The purpose of this action is to allow another vessel to proceed without needing to alter its own course or speed, thereby preventing a potential collision.

Here are some examples illustrating this concept:

• Example 1: Crossing Paths

  Imagine two powerboats, the Sea Serpent and the Ocean Breeze, approaching an intersection on a busy river. The Sea Serpent observes the Ocean Breeze approaching from its starboard (right) side. According to international navigation rules, the vessel that has another on its starboard side is typically the "give-way" vessel.

  In this scenario, the Sea Serpent must give way by either turning to pass behind the Ocean Breeze or slowing down significantly, allowing the Ocean Breeze to maintain its current speed and direction safely across the intersection.

• Example 2: Sailing Vessel Priority

  Consider a large sailing yacht, the Wind Dancer, moving under sail across a bay. A small motor-powered fishing boat, the Net Caster, is also operating in the same area. Maritime rules generally dictate that power-driven vessels must yield to sailing vessels.

  Therefore, the Net Caster, as the power-driven vessel, must give way to the Wind Dancer. This means the Net Caster might need to adjust its heading, reduce its speed, or even stop temporarily to ensure the Wind Dancer can continue its journey without having to change course or speed.

• Example 3: Narrow Channel Navigation

  A massive cargo ship, the Global Freighter, is navigating a designated narrow shipping channel. A smaller recreational kayak is also paddling in the channel, heading in the opposite direction. Due to its immense size and limited maneuverability, the Global Freighter is restricted in its ability to deviate from the channel.

  In this situation, the kayak, despite its small size, must give way to the Global Freighter. This would involve the kayaker paddling out of the main channel, moving to the very edge, or even waiting in a safe harbor pocket until the large ship has passed, ensuring the freighter's safe passage without impediment.