When it comes to preventing collisions at sea, kiteboarders are considered in the same category as a sailing boat. Learn how to protect yourself and others against dangerous clashes.
In 1972, the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea defined the rules and guidelines for all sailing crafts. The oceans and seas are full of vessels, yachts, fishing boats, and cargo ships, so there should be signals and regulation for all.
That is why Colregs (Collision Regulations) were born. Colregs define priorities between sailboats, between sailboats and powerboats, and between power boats. Power boats, as a general rule, must give way to sailboats. Kites and kiteboards are considered sailboats.
Issues like steering, visibility, motor power, size, speed, and maneuverability are taken into consideration every time two crafts approach one another. Since 1972, several amendments have been proposed and approved.
https://www.surfertoday.com/kiteboarding/the-right-of-way-rules-in-kiteboarding