If we're both pointing head to wind, does anyone have right of way?

Name: Head to Wind Doesn't Save You (Racing Rule 10 Explained)
Uploaded: 2026-08-31T12:00:00+12:00
Duration: 1 min 35 s
Description: If we're both pointing head to wind, does anyone have right of way? Yes. The definition Leeward and Windward keeps you on the tack of your windward side until you turn past head to wind — pointing at the wind changes nothing. So the boat that was on port is still on port, and Rule 10 makes her keep clear. A gradual luff also satisfies Rule 16.1, because the other boat still had room to respond.

Question

Accepted Answer

Yes. The definition Leeward and Windward keeps you on the tack of your windward side until you turn past head to wind — pointing at the wind changes nothing. So the boat that was on port is still on port, and Rule 10 makes her keep clear. A gradual luff also satisfies Rule 16.1, because the other boat still had room to respond.

If we're both pointing head to wind, does anyone have right of way?

Next on this shelf — The Start

Pre-Start Luff — The Leeward Boat Can Go Head to Wind (Case 13)

Changing Course as Right-of-Way Boat (Case 6)

OCS But No Horn — Do You Have to Go Back? (Case 31)