Nobody hit anybody — how can port have broken Rule 10?
Because keep clear means the right-of-way boat can sail her course with no avoiding action at all. Under Rule 10 the port-tack boat must keep clear of starboard; the instant the starboard boat is forced to change course to avoid contact, port has already broken the rule. Contact is not required, and hails like “Will I make it?” or “No tack!” change nothing — the rules judge what the boats did, not what the crews shouted.
📖 Want Rule 10 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/Tqz8Sgn_-uA" 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/Tqz8Sgn_-uA/">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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