USCG Exam PracticeRule 12 — Sailing Vessels
Vessel A is a sailing vessel on starboard tack. Vessel B is a sailing vessel on port tack. Vessel B is to windward of Vessel A. Risk of collision exists. Which vessel is the give-way vessel and under which provision?
- ✓ Vessel B, under the different-tack rule, because she has the wind on her port sideCorrect
- B. Vessel A, under the same-tack rule, because she is to leeward
- C. Vessel B, under the same-tack rule, because she is to windward
- D. Vessel A, under the different-tack rule, because she has the wind on her starboard side
Why A is correct
Because the two vessels have the wind on different sides (Vessel A starboard, Vessel B port), the different-tack rule applies: the vessel with the wind on the port side keeps out of the way. That is Vessel B. 33 CFR §83.12(a)(i). The windward/leeward rule at §83.12(a)(ii) applies only when both vessels are on the same tack.
Cited:33 CFR §83.12