When the wind is over the starboard side, which tack are you on?

When the wind is over the starboard side, you are on a starboard tack. In sailing terminology, the direction from which the wind is blowing determines the tack you are on. A starboard tack occurs when the wind is coming from the starboard (right) side of the boat, which means the port side (left side) of the boat is facing toward the wind. This positioning causes the sails to be trimmed in a specific manner and affects how the boat is steered and navigated.

Understanding this is fundamental because it influences how a sailor maneuvers the vessel, interacts with other boats on the water, and applies the right navigation rules. Tracking whether you are on a starboard tack or a port tack also assists in determining your rights and responsibilities when encountering other vessels, as navigation rules vary based on which tack you are on.