If a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver is overtaking you, what should be your response?

When a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver is overtaking you, standing on with caution is an appropriate response. This means that you should maintain your course and speed while being vigilant of the overtaking vessel’s movements. A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver typically has limitations due to factors such as her size, draft, or operational conditions, which may impact her ability to change course or speed effectively. Therefore, as the overtaken vessel, it is crucial to ensure your actions do not interfere with the safe navigation of the restricted vessel.

Remaining on course while exercising caution allows you to keep a steady trajectory, which aids both you and the overtaking vessel in assessing the situation more accurately and maintaining safe distances. It's important to monitor the overtaking vessel closely to ensure that you can react if her actions suggest a potential for collision.

In contrast, suddenly changing course immediately would be risky, as it could confuse the overtaking vessel or create a dangerous situation. Reducing speed and tracking the vessel may be a valid option in some scenarios, but it is not the primary response required under these circumstances. Calling the vessel on VHF may be unnecessary if the situation is stable, as the COLREGs prioritize maintaining course and speed unless action is required to