Keeping Sailing Safe With Regulations
Like any other sport, you have to keep sailing safe by following the necessary rules and regulations. It seems that a collision is the last thing that can occur at sea. However, collisions are quite common and you need to follow these regulations to ensure that both parties are safe and you are not guilty.
Rules
•   Port gives way to starboard. This is the universal rule as far as sailing is concerned. It means that if there is a boat approaching on your starboard and you are on a possible collision course, then your boat will give way to the other. In sailing, this rule is extended. The boat that has its sail set to the wind coming in from the left hand side (port) must give way to the ship that has its sail set for the wind coming in from the right hand side (starboard). If both the boats have their sail set in the same direction, then the boat that is closer to the wind and is called as the windward boat. It must make way for the boat that is away from the wind and is called as leeward boat.
•   The more maneuverable vessel must always take the initiative and move away from the path of the less maneuverable one. It is always better for a small sized vessel to stay away from the path of one of the bigger ships. This rule does not necessarily mean that power gives way to sail. In simpler terms, if you are on a smaller vessel and see that a bigger one is making the way towards you, simply turn away from it.
•   Even if you have the right of way, you must take immediate action to avoid a collision. Even if you have the right of way or the opposite party does, both of you have to take prompt action to avoid a collision. In such a situation, the collision is the only factor to consider and everything must be done to avoid it.
Other Rules And Regulations
Besides these basic rules, there are some basic rules of safety that sailors are supposed to know. However, a beginner is not expected to know them all in the start. As and when you pursue sailing, you will get a better grip on all the rules and eventually master it. There are many terms in sailing like port tack, starboard, leeward etc that will give you a better idea about sailing as well as will help you in understanding the rules. It is better if you learn these terms before hand. So arm yourself with as much information as you can and have a great sailing experience.
