When does a sailboat under sail become the give-way vessel when encountering a power-driven vessel?

A sailboat under sail is considered the give-way vessel when it is overtaking a power-driven vessel. This situation arises from the navigational rules that prioritize the vessel in the more dominant position for maneuvering – in this case, the power-driven vessel, which is generally less maneuverable than a sailboat under sail. When a sailboat is overtaking, it must ensure that it gives way to avoid collisions, as the vessel being overtaken may not be able to anticipate or react to the changing situation as quickly.

The other scenarios present different circumstances. In a head-on approach, both vessels must alter their courses to avoid a collision. When the sailboat is being towed, it is subject to the same rules as the towing vessel and therefore would not be considered the give-way vessel in the same way as when sailing independently. A power-driven vessel at a standstill does not create a navigational conflict requiring the sailboat to be the give-way vessel, as there are no maneuvers being made by the power-driven vessel. Thus, the dynamics of overtaking situations specifically establish the sailboat as the give-way vessel.