Which is the boat that must take action when operating near each other?

When two boats are operating near each other, the boat that must take action is typically the "give-way" vessel. This is often determined by the navigation rules, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Generally, the give-way vessel must alter its course or speed to avoid a collision, while the "stand-on" vessel maintains its course and speed unless it becomes apparent a collision cannot be avoided. Specific scenariOS, such as crossing, overtaking, or meeting head-on, dictate which vessel is the give-way and which is the stand-on.