Sail vs. Power Right of Way

Under most navigation rules, a sailing vessel has right-of-way over a power-driven vessel unless the sailboat is overtaking; also impacted by narrow channels or restricted maneuverability.

Related Terms

Navigation Rules

The “rules of the road” for waterways, dictating right-of-way, overtaking procedures, and collisi...

Stand-On Vessel

In a crossing or meeting situation, the boat that must maintain its course and speed while the ot...

Give-Way Vessel

The boat required to alter course or slow down to avoid a collision with a stand-on vessel under ...

Boat Handling Under Sail

Basics of operating a sailboat, including tacking, jibing, and reading wind direction; often cove...

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