Port boat is laying the mark, starboard is coming in — who gives way?
Rule 18.3 applies inside the zone at a windward mark: when one boat completes a tack inside the zone and the other boat is fetching the mark on starboard, the boat that tacked must give mark room and must not cause the starboard-tack boat to sail above close-hauled to avoid her. Port tack approaching does not automatically lose — the geometry decides.
📖 Want Rule 18 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/Q2xMVr9xLik/">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.
- The Sail Racing Bible — A complete guide to dinghy racing.
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