If you're overtaking another vessel, what is your obligation?

When overtaking another vessel, your obligation is to give way to the vessel being overtaken. This is established as a fundamental rule in navigation, as it helps to prevent collisions and ensures safe passage on the water. The vessel that is being overtaken has the right of way, allowing it to maintain its course and speed without interference. By giving way, you demonstrate responsible seamanship and consideration for the safety of others on the water.

Maintaining your course and speed, signaling with three short horns, or turning back to avoid the other vessel may not be appropriate actions in this scenario. The overtaking vessel must adjust its course or speed to safely pass the other vessel while maintaining a safe distance, and too often, misjudging the situation can lead to dangerous encounters. Understanding the rules of the road is crucial for all boat operators, particularly in busy waterways.