I gained a leeward overlap from astern downwind — can I luff the windward boat up?
No. When you establish a leeward overlap from clear astern within two boat-lengths, Rule 17 holds you to your proper course — you may not sail above it while the overlap lasts. Proper course is set by the boat, her equipment, and the conditions, not by what would most inconvenience the other boat. You cannot force the windward boat to hoist a spinnaker or sail higher than you would sail to finish as fast as possible.
📖 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)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5GDWkLDGbaI" title="Sailing Kiwi" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/5GDWkLDGbaI/">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.
- Tactics Made Simple by Jon Emmett — Racing tactics, explained simply.
- Five Oceans masthead wind indicator — See the wind direction at a glance.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through a link in the list it helps fund the channel and keeps the videos coming for everyone.