Two sailing vessels are in sight with collision risk. Vessel A is on port tack and Vessel B is on starboard tack. Who keeps out of the way?
Short answer
Vessel A on port tack
Rule 12 requires the port-tack vessel to keep out of the way of the starboard-tack vessel when the sailing vessels are in sight and collision risk exists. Vessel A should take early, substantial action and both vessels continue monitoring.
Quick check
Two sailing vessels are in sight with collision risk. Vessel A is on port tack and Vessel B is on starboard tack. Who keeps out of the way?