Running downwind beside another boat, a boat from astern aims for the gap between me and the boat to leeward. She came from behind, so she has to keep clear of me, right?
Not here. All three boats are on port. The leeward boat (Blue) is an obstruction to both of you, because you and the boat astern (Red) both have to keep clear of her. A boat racing is not an obstruction to other boats unless they are required to keep clear of her. When Red gets an overlap inside you, Rule 19.2(b) says the outside boat shall give the inside boat room between her and the obstruction, unless she has been unable to do so from the time the overlap began. So you must give Red room to pass between you and Blue. The catch: dive into a gap that is already closing and you owe nothing.
📖 Want Rule 19 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/_GywkGPq54U/">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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