When the auxiliary engine is not running or is being assisted by sail power
the power driven vessel needs to give-way for sailing ships.
Steer into the wind.
When the sails are furled and it is proceeding under its auxilliary engine
Keep clear... The power driven vessel should, if possible, maintain course and speed. The only rule for overtaking is that you keep your distance while overtaking
When being propelled by wind alone and without auxiliary motive force.
When sails are up and are producing more momentum then power (if the vessel is still using power to make way)
**Not sure why this was flagged, I hand typed this.Rules of the RoadRule 9-Steering & Sailing RulesInternational/Inland(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.***This applies to sailing vessels that are tacking in a channel or fairway.Rule 18Steering and Sailing Rules.Responsibilities Between Vessels.Except where Rules 9,10 and 13 otherwise require:(a) A power driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:(iv) a sailing vessel.(b) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way :(i) a vessel not under command(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver .
In Australia, sailing boats only have to give way to commercial boats. When collision is imminent. Exercising your "right of way" can be detrimental to your lives and crafts.
There are general rules for which vessel should give way but circumstances dictate which vessel does give way and which one stands on.For instance, there are many occasions when a sailing vessel not only should but must give way to a power driven vessel. A few examples are as follows.If the power driven vessel is:Engaged in fishingEngaged in diving operationsNot under commandHas restricted manouverability due to its draught.Has right of way.See the link below for Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea for a more comprehensive collection.
When overtaking a power-driven vessel, a sailing vessel operator should ensure they have a clear understanding of the right-of-way rules, typically following the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). The operator must maintain a safe distance and maneuver to pass the power-driven vessel on its starboard side unless otherwise indicated. It is also crucial to communicate intentions, possibly using sound signals, and to monitor the other vessel's response to ensure safe passage. Finally, the operator should remain vigilant for any changes in the situation that may require adjustment of their course or speed.
Rules of the RoadRule 9-Steering & Sailing RulesInternational/Inland(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.***This applies to sailing vessels that are tacking in a channel or fairway.Rule 18Steering and Sailing Rules.Responsibilities Between Vessels.Except where Rules 9,10 and 13 otherwise require:(a) A power driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:(iv) a sailing vessel.(b) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way :(i) a vessel not under command(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver .
Rules of the RoadRule 9-Steering & Sailing RulesInternational/Inland(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel or fairway.***This applies to sailing vessels that are tacking in a channel or fairway.Rule 18Steering and Sailing Rules.Responsibilities Between Vessels.Except where Rules 9,10 and 13 otherwise require:(a) A power driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:(iv) a sailing vessel.(b) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way :(i) a vessel not under command(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver .