Originally Posted by
Moe Zhoost
If your FIL means to be prudent and give way to larger vessels, then this may be a valid strategy to avoid collisions. On the other hand, there are a lot of small vessels with limited speed and maneuverability that do have legal right-of-way. Assuming that a big power boat is not in a limited special category, the operator is required to alter course. Failure to do this is criminal negligence.
What sort of "small vessels"?
Speed isn't relevant. Small means the boat is less restricted. They also are typically very maneuverable.
Kayaks, for example, don't have any special privileges.
All captains have the requirement to try to avoid collisions.