What action should a sailing vessel take when overtaken by a power-driven vessel?

What action should a sailing vessel take when overtaken by a power-driven vessel?

• A. Maintain course and speed
• B. Give-way
• C. Sound a warning
• D. Raise sail

Answer: (A)

When a sailing vessel is overtaken by a power-driven vessel, the correct action is to give-way. This is based on navigation rules that dictate that vessels under power have the right of way over those that are sailing. The rationale behind this is centered on maneuverability; power-driven vessels can typically maneuver more quickly and easily than sailing vessels, which rely on wind for movement and may have more limited options for changing course or speed. Maintaining course and speed would not be appropriate in this situation because it could lead to a dangerous encounter with the overtaking vessel, which is obligated to avoid a collision. Sounding a warning or raising sail would also not address the need to yield to the power-driven vessel. Therefore, the sailing vessel should take necessary actions to allow the power-driven vessel to pass safely.

When a sailing vessel is overtaken by a power-driven vessel, the correct action is to give-way. This is based on navigation rules that dictate that vessels under power have the right of way over those that are sailing. The rationale behind this is centered on maneuverability; power-driven vessels can typically maneuver more quickly and easily than sailing vessels, which rely on wind for movement and may have more limited options for changing course or speed.

Maintaining course and speed would not be appropriate in this situation because it could lead to a dangerous encounter with the overtaking vessel, which is obligated to avoid a collision. Sounding a warning or raising sail would also not address the need to yield to the power-driven vessel. Therefore, the sailing vessel should take necessary actions to allow the power-driven vessel to pass safely.