What action should a vessel take when it is being overtaken?

When a vessel is being overtaken, it is required to maintain its course and speed. This rule helps to ensure predictability and safety in navigation. By keeping a steady course and speed, the overtaken vessel provides the overtaking vessel with a clear and consistent path to pass safely.

Maintaining course and speed is vital because it minimizes confusion and prevents sudden maneuvers, which could lead to collisions or other navigational hazards. The overtaking vessel is responsible for avoiding the one being overtaken, thus reinforcing the idea that the overtaken vessel should not change its navigation behavior.

Choosing alternative actions, such as turning to the right or left or speeding up, introduces uncertainty and can complicate the circumstances for the overtaking vessel. Adhering to the established rules helps facilitate safe passage and mutual understanding between vessels on the water.