Sailboat Rules of the Sea

Right of Way: Understanding Who Yields

The 'right of way' (or 'stand-on vs. give-way') rules determine which vessel maintains course and which must yield.

General right-of-way rules for sailboats:

• Sail over power: A sailboat under sail (not using its engine) typically has the right of way over motorboats.
• Starboard over port: When two sailboats are on opposing tacks, the one on starboard tack (wind from the right) has right of way.
• Leeward over windward: If both boats are on the same tack, the leeward boat has right of way.

Note: If your sailboat is using its engine, it's considered a power-driven vessel and must follow those rules.

Navigation and Lookout

Every vessel must maintain a proper lookout at all times using sight and sound.

• Assign a lookout at night or in high-traffic areas.
• Use binoculars, nav lights, and horn signals.
• Monitor VHF channels 16 and 13 for safety traffic.

Avoiding Collisions at Sea

Always avoid a collision, even if you technically have right of way.

• Be predictable; maintain a steady course.
• Communicate with signals if near other vessels.
• Slow down in crowded harbors or channels.

Collisions can cause serious damage. If your vessel is stranded or sunk, U.S. Boat Removal can help.

Respect the Environment and Other Boaters

Good seamanship includes:

• Not littering or discharging waste.
• Following no-wake zones.
• Yielding to smaller, non-powered craft.
• Keeping music down in quiet areas.

Anchoring and Mooring Etiquette

• Maintain distance from other anchored boats.
• Drop anchor slowly with enough rode.
• Never tie to navigational buoys or private docks.
• Be respectful when arriving at crowded anchorages.

Know the COLREGs

The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) cover:

• Light and day signal requirements
• Sound signals in fog
• Rules for overtaking and head-on encounters

Familiarity helps avoid legal and navigational trouble.

If Trouble Strikes, Call U.S. Boat Removal

Even experienced sailors may run aground or suffer engine failure.

U.S. Boat Removal offers licensed, fast, and eco-conscious marine recovery nationwide.

Protect your boat and your reputation--call us when you need help.