Regarding overtaking, when a vessel overtakes another, where may the overtaking vessel pass and what must it do?

Regarding overtaking, when a vessel overtakes another, where may the overtaking vessel pass and what must it do?

• A. On either side, as long as the overtaking vessel remains clear.
• B. Only on the port side.
• C. Only on the starboard side.
• D. Overtaking is prohibited.

Answer: (A)

When a vessel is overtaking another, you may pass on either side of the vessel being overtaken, as long as you remain clear of it until you are completely past. The important requirement is safety and not impeding the other vessel during the maneuver. This flexibility exists specifically so the overtaking vessel can choose the safer side given conditions like traffic, wind, and current. The other ideas—that you must pass only on one particular side or that overtaking is prohibited—don’t fit because the rule grants the overtaking vessel the option to pass on either side, provided you stay clear.

When a vessel is overtaking another, you may pass on either side of the vessel being overtaken, as long as you remain clear of it until you are completely past. The important requirement is safety and not impeding the other vessel during the maneuver. This flexibility exists specifically so the overtaking vessel can choose the safer side given conditions like traffic, wind, and current. The other ideas—that you must pass only on one particular side or that overtaking is prohibited—don’t fit because the rule grants the overtaking vessel the option to pass on either side, provided you stay clear.