A boat is catching me from astern downwind — do I automatically have right of way?
Not necessarily. Rule 12 (clear astern keeps clear) only applies when both boats are on the same tack. Downwind you can't read tack from heading — both boats point nearly the same way — so check the boom side. If you're on opposite tacks, Rule 10 takes over and the port-tack boat keeps clear, regardless of who's ahead. Gybe, and the obligation flips instantly.
📖 Want more situations like this one? Bryan Willis's The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 works through the rules as they happen round the racecourse. (affiliate link)
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/2xl5uiWv544/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Situations round the racecourse, worked through for the current rules.
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
- Five Oceans masthead wind indicator — See the wind direction at a glance.
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