You are running downwind on starboard. Another boat comes up from behind and gets an overlap to leeward of you. She came from behind, so does she keep clear?
No. "Clear astern keeps clear" (Rule 12) only applies while the boats are not overlapped. The moment her bow passes the line abeam from your stern, you are overlapped and Rule 11 takes over: the windward boat keeps clear of the leeward boat, so you keep clear, here by heading up to sail parallel. She does not get it all her own way. Because she became overlapped to leeward from clear astern within two of her hull lengths, Rule 17 says she may not sail above her proper course while the overlap lasts, so she cannot push you up to windward. When she first gets the overlap, Rule 15 also requires her to give you room to keep clear. Clear astern keeps clear, until she overlaps. Then windward keeps clear.
📖 Want Rule 11 in more depth? Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 sets out every rule with plain-English explanations and diagrams. (affiliate link)
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/74emwt0CDKI/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- Racing Rules Companion 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Spiral-bound pocket guide to the current rules.
- Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 — Every rule, with plain-English explanations and diagrams.
- Five Oceans masthead wind indicator — See the wind direction at a glance.
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