What action should a vessel take when observing a signal indicating a pilot ahead?

When a vessel observes a signal indicating that a pilot is ahead, it is important to prepare for docking procedures. The presence of a pilot indicates that the vessel is entering a congested or tricky area, often near a port or harbor, where local knowledge is crucial for safe navigation.

A pilot typically boards a vessel to provide expert guidance on safely navigating through difficult waters, which may involve complex maneuvers, potential hazards, and specific local rules. Preparing for docking procedures means that the vessel should be ready to follow the pilot's instructions regarding approach and mooring tactics while ensuring that all crew members understand their roles during the docking process.

Maintaining course and speed or turning back would not be appropriate actions when a pilot signal is observed, as they may not align with ensuring the safety and compliance of navigation within the specific area. Speeding up to pass quickly would also be unsafe, as it would compromise the guidance the pilot is meant to provide and increase the potential for an incident during such a critical navigation phase.