This is the basic rule when two sailing boats meet: no matter what other rules exist, if the boats are on
different tacks, then the boat on port tack gives way to the boat on starboard tack. Here's how it works:
Port Tack
A boat is on the port tack when the boom is out to starboard. This boat is sailing to windward on the
port tack
Starboard Tack
A boat is on the starboard tack when the boom is out to port. This boat is sailing to windward on the
starboard tack
Port tack gives way
Here boats meet on opposite tacks: The starboard tack boat
hails "Starboard!" (a good idea: he doesn't have to, but it alerts the other crew) and the port tack boat gives way by tacking.
Here two boats meet on opposite tacks, but this time the port tack boat decides to give way by passing astern of the starboard
tack boat. Which of these tactics is best? There are lots of factors to consider: only experience will help you
make the right choice!
Next rule!
That was rule 10 of the Racing Rules of Sailing.
The Racing Rules of Sailing are looked after by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF)
Acknowledgement!
This article about the racing rules was inspired by an article on
Burghfield SC's website (I always love nicking
other people's ideas!) but instead of animations, they have photos of a couple of RS400s: bit static
I thought.