Sailing right of way, made simple
The navigation rules decide who holds course (the stand-on vessel) and who maneuvers (the give-way vessel). Learn four rules and their exceptions and you'll ace this whole section.
The mindset first
The stand-on vessel holds course and speed so the other boat can plan around her. The give-way vessel acts early and obviously — a big, clear turn beats a subtle one. And rule zero overrides everything: everyone must avoid a collision, even the stand-on vessel, if it comes to that.
Rule 1 — opposite tacks: starboard stands on
When two sailboats approach on opposite tacks, the boat with the wind over her port side (port tack) keeps clear. The starboard-tack boat stands on. Remember which tack you're on at all times — it's the first thing a crossing situation asks of you.
Rule 2 — same tack: windward gives way
Two boats on the same tack: the windward boat (closer to the wind) keeps clear of the leeward boat. The leeward boat's sails can be blanketed and her options are fewer, so she stands on.
Rule 3 — overtaking: the overtaker always keeps clear
Any vessel overtaking another keeps clear until she is finally past and clear — sail or power, no exceptions. Yes, that includes a sailboat overtaking a powerboat. Overtaking beats every other rule.
Rule 4 — power gives way to sail (usually)
A power-driven vessel keeps clear of a vessel under sail in open water. The exceptions matter, and the test loves them. Sailboats must keep clear of:
- any vessel they are overtaking (Rule 3 wins),
- large vessels constrained by their draft or in a narrow channel — never impede a ship that can't maneuver; cross well astern,
- vessels engaged in fishing with nets or gear restricting them,
- vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver or not under command.
The motorsailing trap
A sailboat with its engine on and in gear is a power-driven vessel under the rules, even with every sail flying. The moment you click into gear, you take on a powerboat's give-way duties. This is one of the most reliably missed questions on the test.
Quick reference
| Situation | Who keeps clear |
|---|---|
| Sailboats on opposite tacks | The port-tack boat |
| Sailboats on the same tack | The windward boat |
| One vessel overtaking another | The overtaking vessel, always |
| Sail vs power, open water | The power-driven vessel |
| Sailboat vs ship in a narrow channel | The sailboat — don't impede |
| Motorsailing sailboat vs sailboat under sail | The motorsailer (she counts as power) |