Section II – Conduct of vessels in sight of one another
Rule 15: Crossing situation
When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit avoid, crossing ahead of the other vessel.
Meaning: This situation would frequently arise and it is always better to avoid a close quarter situation and go right around the stern of the other vessel rather than cross ahead of the other vessel.
Of course going around the stern may not be practical at all times but if the situation permits then it should be followed if the crossing would result in a small CPA.
[…] ColRegs Rule-15 (crossing rule) states that “when two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.” […]