Can I ask another boat for advice during a race?
Only for safety. Under Rule 41 (Outside Help) unsolicited safety information is allowed, but the moment you request tactical advice — on any channel, even open VHF anyone can hear — it becomes outside help. In Case 100 the boat that asked whether it was safe to anchor was disqualified; the boat that answered was cleared. The Rule 41(d) exception only covers information you didn't ask for.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_QDtp9hDjwE" 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/_QDtp9hDjwE/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Recommended reading
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — The clearest guide to the racing rules around the racecourse — updated for the current 2025-2028 rulebook.
- Advanced Racing Tactics by Stuart H. Walker — The classic deep-dive on racing tactics — starting, beating, reaching and mark rounding.
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