Download Boating Tip #46: Vessel Priority – Right of Way (PDF format, 21KB)

Responsibilities between Vessels: Rule 18

Old & New Rods Catch Fish So Purchase Some OK

O

Overtaken
(Stand on, maintain course and speed)

N

NUC – Not Under Command
(Exceptional circumstances, broken, unable to maneuver)

R

RAM – Restricted Ability to Maneuver
(Working)

C

CBD – Constrained By Draft
(International Rules only)

F

Fishing
(Commercial fishing vessels while engaged in fishing)

S

Sailboat

P

Power Driven Vessels

S

Seaplanes

O

Overtaking
(Give way)

Sailboats – Different Tack Rule

If two sailboats are crossing, the boat on starboard tack has the right of way.

Sailboats – Same Tack Rule

If two sailboats on the same tack are crossing, the leeward or downwind boat has the right of way. The windward boat must give way because she is stealing the wind of the boat in her lee.

Powerboats

Remember that a sailboat under power is considered a power driven vessel, not a sailboat. If two powerboats with equal priority are in a crossing situation, the vessel to the right of the other is the stand on vessel (they see the starboard /green side of the other vessel). The vessel to the left is the give way vessel (they see the port / red side of the other vessel).