What should a sailing vessel do when encountering a windward vessel?

When a sailing vessel encounters a windward vessel, it must give way to the windward vessel. This is based on the rules of navigation that govern how vessels interact with each other under various sailing conditions. A windward vessel is generally considered to be the one that is sailing into the wind or closer to the wind’s direction, which puts it in a more advantageous position.

By giving way, the sailing vessel ensures that it does not obstruct the path of the windward vessel, maintaining safe navigation for both. This rule promotes safety on the water by helping to prevent collisions and ensuring that both vessels can smoothly navigate the maritime environment, especially in situations where the wind direction is crucial for sailboats.

The other choices do not align with safe boating practices dictated by navigation rules. For example, maintaining course could lead to a collision, speeding up could create issues with maneuverability, and ignoring the other vessel would be unsafe and rude, disregarding the shared responsibility that all mariners have to remain aware of their surroundings and the actions of other vessels.