We collided on opposite tacks — I was on starboard, so why am I penalised too?
When two boats collide on opposite tacks, the port boat breaks Rule 10 (didn't keep clear) and often Rule 14 (could have tacked away). But the starboard boat also breaks Rule 14 if she had time to avoid contact and didn't. When contact causes damage, Rule 43 provides no exoneration — so in World Sailing Case 123, both boats were disqualified. Right of way never excuses you from avoiding an avoidable collision.
📖 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/4ycuKakLqyA/">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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