Two boats are operating near each other. Which is the boat that must maintain its course and speed?

In situations involving two boats operating near each other, the boat that is on a "stand-on" course must maintain its course and speed. Typically, this is the vessel that has the right of way, often determined by navigation rules such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). The other boat, known as the "give-way" vessel, is required to alter its course or speed to avoid a collision.