I just gained a leeward overlap — can I luff the windward boat right away?
Not immediately. When you gain right of way by becoming overlapped to leeward (Rule 11), Rule 15 requires you to first give the windward boat room to keep clear, and Rule 16.1 requires room whenever you change course. In Case 93 Yellow luffed the instant the overlap formed, hit Blue, and was disqualified — her appeal denied. Give the new right a breath before you use it.
📖 Want Rule 15 in more depth? Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules 2025-2028 sets out every rule with plain-English explanations and diagrams. (affiliate link)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TOAZB2ci2j4" 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/TOAZB2ci2j4/">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.
- Sail dry bag — Keeps your kit dry on the boat.
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