In a boating context, which vessel is required to give way to a sailing vessel?

A powered vessel is required to give way to a sailing vessel primarily due to the rules governing navigation at sea and on inland waterways. The reasoning behind this regulation is based on the fact that sailing vessels typically rely on wind for propulsion and may not be able to maneuver as quickly or efficiently as powered vessels.

In situations where a sailing vessel is under sail—meaning it is not using its motor—other vessels, particularly those powered, must take measures to avoid collisions by giving way. This rule is established to ensure that the sailing vessel can navigate safely, especially since it may have limitations when it comes to changing direction or speed compared to powered boats.

While vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver and vessels engaged in fishing also have specific navigational rules, they are not typically categorized as needing to give way to sailing vessels; instead, they may have their own conditions that dictate right-of-way. Hence, the defined priority for powered vessels to yield stems from the safety intention to protect those vessels that may have less control.