Start Sailing Right - Right of Way

So there are no lines painted on the water or traffic signals out there to tell you what the priorities are when two boats meet...here are the basics of when two SAILBOATS meet.

Rule 1) No one has the "Right of Way." We stopped using that term in these discussions because the first and foremost rule is DON'T HIT ANYONE ELSE! Regardless of what the priorities might be...if the oncoming boat is not paying attention or just doesn't know what is going on, don't hit them just because you think you had the "right of way."

Rule 2) Starboard Tack over Port Tack - A boat on Starboard Tack is the Stand-on Vessel while the boat on Port Tack is the Give Way Vessel. This means that when two boats meet, if you are on Port and he is on Starboard, you must stay clear of the other boat. (If you don't remember what tack you are on, see this discussion on Points of Sail.)

Rule 3) Leeward over Windward - When two boats on the same tack meet, the boat that is further downwind is the Stand-on Vessel and the boat further upwind is the Give Way Vessel.

Rule 4) Overtaken over Overtaking (Being Passed over Passing) - A boat that is passing from clear astern is the Give Way vessel and the boat being passed is the Stand-on Vessel.

Every situation that you encounter, apply these rules in that order, and you'll be a courteous and responsible sailor.

There are a few other rules that are important and deal with when different kinds of boats meet. The rule of tonnage - when a large vessel is restricted by a channel, you must keep clear. Powerboats must keep clear of sailboats under sail. Man-powered craft (Kayaks, Canoes or Rowing Shells) have the right of way over sailboats and powerboats (not withstanding the rule of tonnage). You must keep clear of commercial fishing vessels engaged in fishing operations.

Basically all of these rules are based on how maneuverable a craft is. If you remember Rule 1, you'll be fine!

See you on the water!
Capt Rob