Port tack or starboard tack: who gives way?
The yacht on port tack keeps out of the way of the yacht on starboard tack (Rule 12).
Rule 12 applies when two sailing vessels approach with risk of collision. Your tack is set by the side your mainsail is on, not by where the wind seems to come from: mainsail out to starboard means the wind is on your port side, so you're on port tack.
- Different tacks: port tack gives way to starboard tack.
- Same tack: the windward boat gives way to the leeward boat.
- On port tack and can't tell what tack a boat to windward is on? Assume you must keep clear.
- Overtaking beats all of this: the overtaking boat keeps clear whatever her tack (Rule 13).
- A sailing vessel still keeps clear of vessels not under command, restricted in ability to manoeuvre, or engaged in fishing (Rule 18).
- Give way early and obviously (Rule 16). The stand-on boat holds her course and speed (Rule 17).
Source: COLREGS Rules 12, 13, 16, 17 and 18.
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