Two boats on opposite tacks — who gives way?

Name: Don't Get Penalized — The Sailing Rule Most Beginners Get Wrong
Uploaded: 2026-05-01T12:00:00+12:00
Description: Two boats on opposite tacks — who gives way? Under Rule 10 of the Racing Rules of Sailing, a boat on port tack must keep clear of a boat on starboard tack. Port tack is when the wind hits your port (left) side first; starboard tack is when it hits your starboard (right) side first.

Under Rule 10 of the Racing Rules of Sailing, a boat on port tack must keep clear of a boat on starboard tack. Port tack is when the wind hits your port (left) side first; starboard tack is when it hits your starboard (right) side first.

▶ Watch on YouTube ↓ Download (via YouTube)

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5rS5GpzEOYY" title="Sailing Kiwi" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/upwind/rule-10-port-starboard/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>

Two boats on opposite tacks — who gives way?

Next on this shelf — The Upwind Beat

Rule 11 — Windward Boat Keeps Clear

Rule 15 — You Just Acquired Right of Way (Now Give Room)

Room to Tack at an Obstruction (Rule 20, Case 10)