When a vessel is sailing off the wind the tack is determined by the position of the main boom. For instance, if a schooner or yawl is running wing-a-wing with the main boom off on the port side she is on the starboard tack.
Right of way:
A sailing vessel has the right of way over all steam or power vessels, except when she is the overtaking craft; then she must keep out of the way of the vessel overtaken. A “steam vessel” in the eyes of the law is any vessel driven by machinery, no matter of what kind or sort, and includes all gasolene, kerosene and electric boats. An auxiliary, if using her engine, is a steam vessel, and must keep clear of sailing craft, no matter whether she has sail set or not. Sailing craft must keep clear of rowboats.
Swigging a tackle:
When taking a swig on a tackle, in order to get a sail up, especially on the lee side, if the boat is heeling be careful to get a firm brace of your body or a good leg hold. Sometimes the pin will fly out, or your turn on the cleat slip, and you are liable to go overboard backwards.
Reef points:
The best way is to have the different sets of points made of different kinds of line. Use cotton for the first and manila for the second. Then when tying in, especially in the dark, you will be sure to get the right ends knotted together.
Peak halyards:
The hauling part of the peak halyards is usually brought down and belayed on the starboard side of the mast. I bring mine down on the port side, for this simple reason: The terms peak and port begin with the same letter, and thus it is easy for a green hand to find the right rope. Frequently a trained hand in a moment of excitement will let go the wrong halyard, but by remembering the letter P you are less likely to make the mistake.