What should a power-driven vessel do when encountering a sailing vessel head-on?

When a power-driven vessel encounters a sailing vessel head-on, it is important for the power-driven vessel to give way to the sailing vessel. This is consistent with the "rules of the road" or navigational rules that dictate how vessels should behave in different situations to ensure safety on the water.

The reason for giving way in this situation is rooted in the fact that sailing vessels, particularly those under sail alone, have the right of way when coming head-on with power-driven vessels. This is due to their ability to maneuver more easily and the slower speed at which they typically travel. By giving way and signaling the other boater, the power-driven vessel ensures that they avoid a potential collision and that both vessels can navigate safely past each other.

The other options are less appropriate because passing on a specific side may not be safe given the circumstances, maintaining speed and course could lead to a collision, and turning around may not be practical or necessary in a head-on scenario. It is crucial for boaters to be aware of right-of-way rules to promote safety on the water.