When two sailing vessels are approaching from different sides, which vessel has the right of way?

The vessel on the starboard tack has the right of way when two sailing vessels are approaching from different sides. This rule is grounded in the conventions of navigation and the rules of the road for sailing vessels, specifically the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS).

When a sailing vessel is on a starboard tack, it means that the wind is coming over the starboard side of the boat, allowing it to sail with its sails fuller and more effectively. The general rule of navigation dictates that a sailing vessel on a starboard tack is required to give way to a vessel on a port tack. Thus, when two vessels are approaching each other, the one on the starboard tack maintains its course, thereby having the right of way. This rule is designed to help prevent collisions, as it provides a clear guideline for determining which vessel should yield and promotes safer navigation practices.

Other factors such as the number of crew members or the size of the sail area do not influence the right of way under these circumstances, making them irrelevant in this context.