What is the primary obligation of a vessel that is overtaking another vessel?

The primary obligation of a vessel that is overtaking another vessel is to keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken. This rule is fundamental in preventing collisions at sea and is specified in the COLREGs, specifically Rule 13. When one vessel is overtaking another, the overtaking vessel must exercise caution and give way to the vessel that is being passed, as the latter has the right of way. This ensures safety on the water by preventing confusion and potential accidents that may arise from miscommunication regarding intentions.

In situations involving overtaking, altering the course to the right is not a definitive requirement. Instead, the overtaking vessel should assess the situation and maneuver accordingly while ensuring the vessel being overtaken is not impeded. Sounding a horn signal is sometimes appropriate but is not a primary obligation in this context; it mainly serves as a communication tool rather than a rule for avoiding collisions. Increasing speed to pass quickly can be dangerous and may further complicate the dynamics of the overtaking scenario, as it may lead to reduced maneuverability and hinder the ability to respond effectively to unexpected changes in the environment or the actions of the vessel being overtaken.