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USCG Exam Practice · Rule 12 — Sailing Vessels

Vessel A is a sailing vessel with the wind on her port side. She observes a vessel to windward but cannot determine with certainty whether that vessel has the wind on her port or starboard side. What action is required of Vessel A?

  1. AVessel A may maintain her course and speed until the other vessel's tack is confirmed
  2. BVessel A shall sound one short blast and maintain course
  3. CVessel A shall keep out of the way of the other vessel✓ correct
  4. DVessel A shall keep out of the way only if the other vessel is on the port tack

Why C is correct

33 CFR §83.12(a)(iii) states that if a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to windward and cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel has the wind on the port or starboard side, she shall keep out of the way of the other. The rule resolves ambiguity by placing the burden on the vessel with the wind on her port side.

Cited:33 CFR §83.12

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