In an overtaking scenario, what must the overtaking vessel do in relation to the other vessel?

• A. Keep out of the way of the other
• B. Increase speed to pass quickly
• C. Maintain the same course and speed as the other vessel
• D. Head straight for the other vessel

Answer: (A)

Overtaking means you are coming up from behind and must act to avoid interfering with the vessel you’re passing. The requirement is to keep well clear of the vessel being overtaken until you are completely past it. This puts emphasis on taking action to pass safely at a suitable distance, and it may be done on either side as appropriate, but always with the goal of not crossing into the other vessel’s path.

Increasing speed to pass quickly isn’t what the rule dictates and can create risk; simply maintaining the same course and speed would not accomplish the overtaking safely, and heading straight for the other vessel is dangerous and contrary to safe passing.