Stand On

To maintain course and speed in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), when another vessel is required to give way.

The term “stand on” is a concept in maritime navigation, particularly in relation to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). When two vessels are on a collision course, the “stand-on” vessel is the one that has the right of way and is expected to maintain its current course and speed. The other vessel, known as the “give-way” vessel, is required to take action to avoid a collision, typically by altering its course or speed. 

The stand-on vessel must, however, remain vigilant and be prepared to take evasive action if it becomes clear that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate measures to avoid a collision. This is known as the “last clear chance” rule, where the stand-on vessel may need to act to prevent an accident if the give-way vessel fails to do so. 

In practice, the stand-on vessel should not assume that the give-way vessel will always act correctly, and it is always prudent to maintain a proper lookout and be ready to manoeuvre if necessary. The concept is designed to create a predictable and organised system for vessels to interact safely, reducing the risk of accidents at sea. The stand-on rule applies to various types of encounters, including when vessels are crossing, overtaking, or meeting head-on.