Standonfartøyet

Standonfartøyet is the term used in Nordic maritime language to describe the stand-on vessel in collision avoidance rules. In international navigation law it refers to the vessel that should maintain its course and speed in specific situations to help prevent a collision, rather than taking early action to avoid it. The concept mirrors the English term stand-on vessel and is defined and applied in national regulations as well as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

Legal framework and scope: The stand-on vessel is primarily described in COLREGs, especially Rule 17, which outlines the duties of a vessel that has another vessel on its predicted collision course. The stand-on vessel should continue on its present course and speed unless there is a risk that collision cannot be avoided by the other vessel’s actions. In practice, the give-way vessel has the obligation to take early and substantial action to keep well clear, while the stand-on vessel maintains its path unless circumstances require otherwise.

Responsibilities and actions: The stand-on vessel should monitor the situation, continue on the established course and speed, and communicate intent when appropriate. If it becomes clear that collision cannot be avoided by the other vessel’s actions, or if the stand-on vessel’s own maneuvering becomes necessary for safety, it may take action to avoid collision. The exact response depends on the specific crossing, head-on, or meeting scenarios described in COLREGs.

See also: COLREGs, stand-on vessel, give-way vessel, collision regulations.