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Give Way Rules

The ‘give way’ rules depend on what type of boat you’re in and the type of boat you’re approaching. If in any doubt, avoid a collision at all costs.

Make sure your actions are clear, taken in good time and do not take you close to other vessels. Ignorance of the rules is no excuse.

Overtaking - power boats and sail boats

All boats (sail or power) overtaking from astern are responsible for keeping clear until finally past the boat being overtaken. Always assume that the boat in front may not be aware of your presence or intentions.

When power meets power

Powerboats meeting head on must each alter their course to starboard to pass on the port side of each other.

Keep right.

When powerboats meet at an angle, always give way to your right.

Power gives way to sail

Power boats, unless being overtaken, must always give way to sail.

When sail meets sail

In channels

Every boat must keep to the starboard side of any channel. Smaller vessels must keep out of the way of larger vessels which may be restricted by the channel.

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