Choose your study region

Choose a course collection, not your nationality. Changing region does not change your courses, progress or access.

Compass network home

Optional preference saved in this browser on Compass Revision. It does not sync between devices or the separate course websites. You are never redirected automatically.

All questions
COLREGs

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.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom and general recreational seamanship; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

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?