Right of Way

---

The basic rule is that the more manoeuvrable vessel must give way. The other boat should be passed astern. If this is not possible, the skipper must indicate with a sound signal how he intends to give way. A minimum distance of 50 m should be kept whenever possible.

The following right-of-way rules apply:

• Right before left
• On opposite courses both must give way to starboard
• Right-of-way vessels, tows, and professional fishermen have priority over pleasure craft
• Police, rescue boats, oil-spill, and fire-fighting boats only have priority when displaying a blue flashing light
• Sailing boats have priority over rowing and pedal boats
• Port tack gives way to starboard tack
• Windward gives way to leeward
• Rowing and pedal boats have priority over motorboats

Note that on rivers, sailing boats may not have any special priority over motorboats.