If two sailing vessels have wind on opposite sides of the beam, which must keep clear?

If two sailing vessels have wind on opposite sides of the beam, which must keep clear?

• A. The vessel with wind on the port side
• B. The vessel with wind on the starboard side
• C. Both vessels
• D. Neither vessel

Answer: (A)

When two sailing vessels have wind on opposite sides of the beam, you’re in a crossing situation governed by which tack each vessel is on. The vessel with wind coming from its starboard side is on a starboard tack and has the right of way. The other vessel, with wind on its port side, is on a port tack and must keep clear to avoid a collision. In practice, the port-tack vessel should take early and substantial action to pass well clear, while the starboard-tack vessel should maintain course and speed unless it needs to maneuver to avoid danger. This arrangement reduces risk by giving priority to the vessel whose wind is on its right side.

When two sailing vessels have wind on opposite sides of the beam, you’re in a crossing situation governed by which tack each vessel is on. The vessel with wind coming from its starboard side is on a starboard tack and has the right of way. The other vessel, with wind on its port side, is on a port tack and must keep clear to avoid a collision. In practice, the port-tack vessel should take early and substantial action to pass well clear, while the starboard-tack vessel should maintain course and speed unless it needs to maneuver to avoid danger. This arrangement reduces risk by giving priority to the vessel whose wind is on its right side.