If a power-driven vessel and a sailing vessel are approaching each other, which vessel must give way?

In a situation where a power-driven vessel and a sailing vessel are approaching each other, the rules state that the power-driven vessel must give way to the sailing vessel. This is based on the general principle of the "stand-on" and "give way" vessel categories in the Rules of the Road.

The power-driven vessel is considered the give-way vessel when encountering a sailing vessel under sail. This is because sailing vessels are generally treated as having a higher priority for navigation when they are under sail alone since they typically cannot maneuver as quickly as power-driven vessels. Therefore, the rules are designed to protect the more limited maneuverability of the sailing vessel.

In this scenario, it is crucial for the power-driven vessel operator to be vigilant and yield the right of way to prevent collisions, ensuring that navigation is conducted safely and efficiently.