Definition
For the purposes of the sailing vessel rule, the windward side is the side opposite that on which the mainsail is carried, or in a square-rigged vessel the side opposite that on which the largest fore-and-aft sail is carried. This definition matters when running dead downwind, where apparent wind direction is ambiguous: a boat with the boom out to port is on starboard tack regardless of the burgee. Gybing therefore changes right of way instantly.
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