Under the rules set by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), a sailboat is considered the stand-on vessel when it is under sail alone and encounters a powerboat that is not under command or is restricted in its ability to maneuver. In general, when a sailing vessel is on a collision course with a powerboat, the sailing vessel has the right of way if it is on a starboard tack. However, if the powerboat is overtaking the sailboat, the powerboat must give way regardless of the sailboat's status. In all cases, the ultimate goal is to avoid collision, so both vessels should take appropriate action to ensure safety.
Copyright © 2026 eLLeNow.com All Rights Reserved.