What is the responsibility of a boat being overtaken?

The responsibility of a boat being overtaken is to maintain its course and speed. This means that the overtaken vessel should hold its current trajectory and speed to provide clarity and predictability for the overtaking vessel. Maintaining course and speed helps avoid confusion and allows the overtaking vessel to make the necessary adjustments to safely pass.

If the overtaken vessel were to change course or speed unexpectedly, it could lead to dangerous situations, including collisions. Thus, the maritime rules state that the boat being overtaken should not alter its navigation unless it is necessary to avoid an immediate danger. By maintaining its course and speed, the overtaking vessel has the required information to navigate safely around it.