How should you react if another boat signals that you should give way?

When another boat signals that you should give way, the correct response is to yield and alter your course accordingly. This is rooted in the rules of navigation, which prioritize safety on the water by ensuring that vessels can operate without collisions.

Yielding to another vessel is critical for maintaining a safe distance and preventing accidents, particularly in crowded or challenging waterways. By altering your course, you demonstrate awareness of the situation and a commitment to maritime navigation rules, fostering a cooperative environment among all boaters.

In contrast, maintaining speed and course, stopping and drifting, or ignoring the signal can lead to dangerous situations. For instance, speeding up ignores the potential hazards posed by the other vessel, while stopping may impede traffic flow. Ignoring the signal, especially if you are in a larger vessel, undermines the fundamental principle of navigating safely and can lead to accidents or confrontations. Adhering to the expectation of yielding when signaled reflects a responsible and safe approach to boating.