Maryland Boating Certification Practice Test - Exam Prep & Study Guide

In a crossing situation, the give-way vessel is the one that is required to yield to the other boat, and the determining factor is based on the navigation rules. When two power-driven vessels are crossing paths, the vessel that has the other on its starboard (right) side must give way. This means that if a boat sees another boat approaching from its left, it is on the starboard side of the other boat, and thus the boat on the left is obliged to give way.

This principle is an important part of maritime navigation rules and ensures that vessels can operate safely without collisions. The rule emphasizes right-of-way in contexts like these and helps maintain order on the water. Therefore, in this specific scenario, the correct answer is that the boat on the left is the give-way vessel.