In an overtaking situation, which statement is correct?

• A. Only sailboats must avoid.
• B. The overtaking vessel must keep out of the way of the other.
• C. Both maintain course.
• D. The overtaken vessel must keep out of the way of the overtaking vessel.

Answer: (B)

When one vessel is overtaking another, the responsibility to avoid a collision rests with the overtaking vessel. The overtaking vessel must keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken until it has passed and is clear of that vessel. This is because the overtaking vessel is the one initiating the maneuver and may have changing speed and a closing angle that make it difficult for the overtaken vessel to predict its path.

So the overtaking vessel should adjust its course or speed as needed to pass safely, giving the other vessel a clear path. The vessel being overtaken should generally maintain its course and speed, not be required to move out of the way.

This is why the statement that the overtaking vessel must keep out of the way is the correct one, while the other options do not reflect the established rule.