In which situation is the vessel to windward required to keep clear?

In the context of the Rules of the Road, a vessel to windward must keep clear when sailing with the wind on the same side. This scenario is significant because vessels sailing in such conditions naturally tend to sail faster and have maneuverability affected by the wind. When both vessels are on the same tack, the vessel to windward is at a greater risk of interference with the vessel that is leeward.

The Rules emphasize the importance of maintaining safety and ensuring that the vessel with the wind flowing on its side does not impede the progress of the other, as the leeward vessel has the right to navigate unhindered. In sailing situations, it is critical for the vessel to windward to give way to avoid potential collisions.

Other situations, such as overtaking or converging, have their own specific rules regarding which vessel must keep clear, typically based on the relative positions and maneuvers of the vessels involved. When at anchor, the rules regarding right of way do not apply in the same way, since vessels at anchor are not under way and generally do not pose the same navigational conflicts.