What should a vessel do when it is overtaken by another vessel?

When a vessel is overtaken by another vessel, the correct action is for the overtaken vessel to stand on and hold its course. This action aligns with the navigation rules, specifically Rule 13 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), which states that the vessel being overtaken has the right of way. It is the responsibility of the overtaking vessel to pass safely and with care.

By maintaining its course and speed, the overtaken vessel provides consistent navigation, allowing the overtaking vessel to assess the best way to pass. If the overtaken vessel were to change course or speed suddenly, it could create confusion and increase the risk of collision. The overtaking vessel must make appropriate adjustments to ensure safe passage, while the overtaken vessel maintains stability by holding its position.

In this scenario, signaling with a horn or decreasing speed does not directly address the requirement for the overtaken vessel. While these may be considered in different situations or by the overtaking vessel, they do not pertain to the immediate action that the overtaken vessel should take according to the navigational rules.