Who Goes First? Right of Way Rules in the PNW

Whether you're cruising through the Gulf Islands, tacking past Bowen, or catching the summer breeze in False Creek, there’s one thing we all need to navigate as gracefully as we do the waves: right of way.

Whether it’s a sailing lesson or a relaxing charter during sunset, here at She Sails Vancouver we believe in safety, respect, and keeping our beautiful waters friendly and fun for everyone. So let’s break it down.

Power vs. Sail: Who Yields?

In most cases, power gives way to sail. So if you're under sail (and not using the motor), a motorboat should alter course to avoid you.
What are the exceptions to this rule?

• If you're overtaking another boat, you always give way, no matter what you're sailing.

• If a large vessel is constrained by its draft in a narrow channel (like a ferry or tug with a barge), you yield. They can’t exactly swerve for you.
  

Sail vs. Sail: The Basics

• Different tacks?
  Port tack (wind over the port/left side) gives way to starboard tack (wind over the starboard/right side).

• Same tack?
  The windward boat (the one closer to the wind) yields to the leeward boat.

• On a collision course?
  If it’s not obvious, just play it safe and adjust your course early and clearly. A smile and a wave go a long way out here.
  

In Busy Waters (Like False Creek)

These areas are like the Granville Street of the sea. Keep a sharp eye, keep your radio handy (Channel 16 is your friend), and when in doubt, communicate. Don’t assume the other boat sees you, especially in tight channels or foggy mornings.

Another important concept while navigating busy waters is to treat the waters like a roadway and stick to the right side, for example on the way out of False Creek(where most of She Sails Vancouver routes pass through) the border on the right side will be indicated by green buoys, on the way back into False Creek the border on the right will be indicated by red buoys. Once we are outside of False Creek and out in the open we are allowed to navigate freely, as we’re no longer in busy waters.

It’s also important to watch for ferries, especially in areas like Tsawwassen, Swartz Bay, or Nanaimo, they have priority and move fast.

For more information about the subject visit the Port of Vancouver website and take a look at their Boaters’ Handbook.