When two sailing vessels are approaching, what should the vessel which has the wind on the port side do?

When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, the rules set forth by the COLREGs outline that the vessel with the wind on the port side must take action to avoid a collision. In this scenario, the vessel with the wind on its port side is considered to be “stand-on,” and it is required to yield the right of way to the other vessel, which has the wind on its starboard side. This means that the correct action is to keep out of the way of the other vessel.

Yielding is crucial in maintaining safety at sea, as it allows the give-away vessel to maneuver without the risk of collision. The situation is designed to minimize confusion and enhance navigational safety, ensuring that the vessels can pass each other safely. This requirement is based on the principle of avoiding close-quarters situations and the potential for accidents.

The other options may not contribute to safe navigation: simply keeping course could lead to a collision if both vessels are on a collision path, speeding up could exacerbate the situation and increase the chance of an accident, and notifying the other vessel is unnecessary when defined protocols clear indicate who is required to yield in this situation. By adhering to the rule of yielding, the vessels can maintain a safer passage and avoid potential dangers