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Rule 12: Sailing Vessels (COLREGS)

Last reviewed October 21, 2026

The short answer

Rule 12 settles which of two sailing vessels gives way. With the wind on different sides, the vessel with the wind on her port side keeps out of the way. With the wind on the same side, the windward vessel keeps out of the way. If a port-tack vessel can't tell the other's tack, she gives way.

The rule text

when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other;

International Rules, U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (NAVCEN, 2024 corrected edition), Rule 12

when both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward;

International Rules, U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (NAVCEN, 2024 corrected edition), Rule 12

What it means on the water

  • Port tack gives way to starboard tack (12(a)(i)).
  • Same tack: windward gives way to leeward (12(a)(ii)).
  • Port tack, unsure of a windward vessel's tack: give way (12(a)(iii)).
  • Windward side is the side opposite the mainsail (12(b)).

International vs Inland

Same in both International and Inland.

Common exam traps

  • Defining windward by the wind direction you feel instead of the side opposite the mainsail (12(b)).
  • Applying Rule 12 to a sailboat under power. She's power-driven.

Try 3 questions on Rule 12

  1. Two sailing vessels, different tacks. Who gives way?

    1. Starboard tack
    2. Port tack
    3. Leeward
    4. Larger
    Show answer

    B. Port tack Rule 12(a)(i).

  2. Same tack. Who gives way?

    1. Leeward
    2. Windward
    3. Smaller
    4. Neither
    Show answer

    B. Windward Rule 12(a)(ii).

  3. The windward side is:

    1. The side the wind is felt
    2. The side opposite the mainsail
    3. Always starboard
    4. The bow
    Show answer

    B. The side opposite the mainsail Rule 12(b).

Frequently asked questions

Who has right of way between two sailboats?

Port tack gives way to starboard tack; on the same tack, windward gives way to leeward (Rule 12).

What if I can't tell her tack?

If you're on port tack and she's to windward, keep out of the way (Rule 12(a)(iii)).

Same Inland?

Yes.

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