In an overtaking situation, which vessel maintains course and speed, and on which side should the overtaking vessel pass?

• A. The overtaken vessel maintains course and speed; the overtaking vessel passes on the starboard side.
• B. The overtaking vessel maintains course and speed; the overtaken vessel passes on the starboard side.
• C. The overtaken vessel maintains course and speed; the overtaking vessel passes on the port side.
• D. The overtaking vessel maintains course and speed; the overtaken vessel passes on the port side.

Answer: (C)

In an overtaking situation, the vessel being overtaken keeps its course and speed to provide a predictable path for the maneuver. The vessel doing the overtaking must pass to the port (left) side of the other vessel. This arrangement creates a clear, agreed-on corridor for the pass and reduces the risk of collision, because the overtaking vessel can complete the maneuver without the overtaken vessel suddenly changing course or speed. Passing on the port side is the standard requirement, so the option describing the overtaken vessel maintaining course and speed and the overtaking vessel passing on the port side is the correct one.