A sailing vessel is approaching a power-driven vessel with no direction changes. What should the sailing vessel do?

In a situation where a sailing vessel is approaching a power-driven vessel with no changes in direction from either vessel, the sailing vessel is generally required to maintain its course and speed. This is because, under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), sailing vessels are considered to typically have the right of way over power-driven vessels in certain scenarios, particularly when the sailing vessel is on a steady course towards the power-driven vessel.

If the sailing vessel maintains its course and speed, it will likely avoid a collision, as the power-driven vessel can take the necessary actions to maneuver around it if needed. This promotes safety on the water by ensuring that each vessel knows what to expect from the other.

Changing course immediately, signaling for assistance, or reversing engines may not be appropriate in this scenario, as the sailing vessel should stay predictable in its movements to allow the power-driven vessel to navigate safely. Making sudden changes could create confusion or increase the risk of collision.