USCG Exam PracticeRule 12 — Sailing Vessels
For the purpose of Inland Rule 12, how is the windward side of a fore-and-aft rigged sailing vessel determined?
- A. It is the side from which the wind is blowing across the deck
- B. It is the side on which the mainsail is carried
- ✓ It is the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is carriedCorrect
- D. It is always the port side when sailing close-hauled
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.12(b) defines the windward side as the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is carried. For a square-rigged vessel, it is the side opposite to that on which the largest fore-and-aft sail is carried.
Cited:33 CFR §83.12