When approaching a vessel with less maneuverability, which vessel usually becomes the stand-on vessel?

The vessel with less maneuverability usually becomes the stand-on vessel because maritime navigation rules prioritize the safety of vessels that are less able to alter their course or speed to avoid a collision. This principle is particularly relevant when two vessels are approaching each other.

For example, larger vessels such as cargo ships, fishing boats with gear deployed, or vessels constrained by their draft are typically less maneuverable compared to smaller, more agile boats. Because these less maneuverable vessels cannot change their course easily, the onus is on more maneuverable vessels to take action to avoid a collision, effectively making the less maneuverable vessel the stand-on vessel.

In the context of the other choices, the size, speed, number of passengers, or the time of operation (day or night) does not inherently determine which vessel has the right of way; rather, it is the maneuverability and operational constraints that set the priority in navigation situations.