In Virginia, you must operate at slow-no-wake speed within 50 feet of boat ramps, marinas and moorages.
power boat
10 MPH
Whenever a danger of collision exists.
Whenever a danger of collision exists.
Whenever a danger of collision exists.
Whenever a danger of collision exists.
Whenever a danger of collision exists.
The sailboat is the give-way vessel when it is overtaken by the motorboat, as the motorboat is considered the stand-on vessel in this scenario. Additionally, when two sailing vessels are approaching each other, the sailboat that has the wind on its port side must give way to the one with the wind on its starboard side. In general, the sailboat must also give way to any vessel that is not under command, limited in its ability to maneuver, or constrained by draft.
In general, a sailboat is the give-way vessel when it is under sail alone and encounters a motorboat that is underway. According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), the sailboat must take action to avoid a collision. However, if the sailboat is using its engine, it may be considered the stand-on vessel, depending on the specific circumstances of the encounter. Always be aware of the navigation rules applicable to your situation.
The sailboat is the give-way vessel when both the sailboat and the motorboat are underway and the motorboat is on a course that may result in a collision. According to the navigation rules, a sailing vessel under sail alone must give way to a power-driven vessel. Additionally, if the sailboat is overtaking the motorboat, it must also give way. In all other situations, the sailboat typically maintains its course and speed, while the motorboat is required to avoid a collision.
If the motorboat was hindered in its ability to maneuver, such as a tug pulling a boat or pushing a barge, or if the motorboat was adrift or signaling distress. Understanding the rules of underway and give-way are important parts of maritime safety.