In this final episode, we look at the basic rules of sailing. Having consistent rules to follow for all sailors helps prevent accidents. The reason we have rules for sailing is so that the other knows how you will respond, unlike driving, there are no signs or road markings. Sailing rules are pretty similar around the world, however, please check locally.

You should now be familiar with port and starboard tacks on a boat. If the wind is blowing over your port side first then you are on port tack. If is blowing over your starboard side then you are on starboard tack. Port is the left side of the boat and starboard the right.

Rule 1 - Avoid accidents

Rule 2 - Power gives way to sail, but don't be stupid about this

Rule 3 - Port tack boats give way to starboard, if you are on the same tack, i.e. both on port tack or both on starboard tack, then see Rule 4.

Rule 4 - Windward (Upwind) boats must keep clear of Leeward (Downwind) boats

That’s it for this series, I hope you enjoyed it. Feel free to say thank you by buying me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/learntosail

If you do buy me a coffee then I will send you some audio guides that you can take on the water to listen on an mp3 player which will make it super easy for you to practice your tacking, gybing and how to get out of the dreaded irons when you are stuck head to wind. These will be recorded soon.