In boating, understanding and adhering to the rules of right of way is crucial to ensure safe navigation and avoid collisions on the water. These rules are established to provide a clear hierarchy for vessels encountering each other. Here’s a brief explanation of who has the right of way in various situations:

  • Power vs. Sailboat: Generally, sailboats have the right of way over powerboats. Powerboats should yield to sailboats when they are under sail, not using their engines, and are not overtaking other vessels.
  • Overtaking: The vessel overtaking another is responsible for giving way and ensuring a safe passing distance. The vessel being overtaken should maintain its course and speed.
  • Head-On Situation: In a head-on encounter, both vessels should alter their course to starboard (right) and pass port to port (left side facing each other). Each boat should move to its own right.
  • Crossing Situation: If two vessels are crossing paths, the vessel on the other’s starboard side (right) has the right of way. The vessel on the port side (left) should yield and alter its course to pass astern (behind) the other vessel.
  • Restricted Ability to Maneuver: A vessel that has restricted ability to maneuver, such as a large ship or a vessel towing another, should be given plenty of space and right of way by other vessels.
  • Fishing Vessels: Fishing vessels engaged in fishing, with gear deployed, have the right of way over other vessels, except for vessels that cannot maneuver due to their size or draft.
  • Anchored Vessels: Anchored vessels have the right of way over moving vessels. Other boats should not pass between an anchored vessel and its anchor line.

Remember that maintaining a proper lookout, communicating clearly with other boaters using lights, horns, or radio, and acting responsibly are essential for safe navigation. Always be aware of local regulations and any special rules of the waterways you’re navigating. In some situations, it may be safer to yield the right of way even if you technically have it, to prevent potential accidents. The goal is to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoy a pleasant boating experience. As the saying goes you may be right, but dead right.

By Captain Peter Axelrod