When the motorized vessel is a commercial vessel or when the motorized vessel has another vessel or person in tow.
mooring buoy?
A visible white light indicates that the other vessel is a power-driven vessel.
There are general rules for which vessel should give way but circumstances dictate which vessel does give way and which one stands on.For instance, there are many occasions when a sailing vessel not only should but must give way to a power driven vessel. A few examples are as follows.If the power driven vessel is:Engaged in fishingEngaged in diving operationsNot under commandHas restricted manouverability due to its draught.Has right of way.See the link below for Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea for a more comprehensive collection.
If you see a vessel displaying only a white light, it indicates that the vessel is a power-driven vessel. This vessel is approaching you head-on or is overtaking you. In both cases, you should be prepared to take action to avoid a collision.
When a power-driven vessel is being overtaken by another power-driven vessel, the overtaken vessel is the stand-on vessel. This means the overtaken vessel should maintain its course and speed, while the overtaking vessel is required to take action to avoid a collision. It is the responsibility of the overtaking vessel to ensure safe passage and to maneuver appropriately.
the power driven vessel needs to give-way for sailing ships.
A power driven vessel is often understood to be a mechanically driven boat. Human power as in rowing or wind driven power is not usually considered power driven.
You are approaching the stern of another vessel
A power driven vessel is often understood to be a mechanically driven boat. Human power as in rowing or wind driven power is not usually considered power driven.
when the power-driven vessel is towing another boat and has difficulty maneuvering
When a power-driven vessel is being overtaken by a sailboat, the power-driven vessel is considered the "stand-on" vessel, meaning it must maintain its course and speed. The sailboat, as the "give-way" vessel, is required to take action to avoid a collision. The sailboat should ensure it passes safely and can alter its course if necessary to avoid the power-driven vessel. It's crucial for both vessels to be aware of their responsibilities to ensure safe navigation.
The power-driven vessel should change course and speed.