The boat next to me hailed for room to tack but can't tack herself — do I have to respond?
Yes. Three boats approached an obstruction on starboard; the leeward boat hailed "Room to tack." The middle boat couldn't tack because the windward boat blocked her, so she had to immediately relay the hail upward. Even a boat not adjacent to the original hailer must respond, and only the exact words "Room to tack" satisfy Rule 20.1. The tacks then cascade back down the line. (World Sailing Case 113.)
📖 Want Rule 20 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/_R9kePqcTOs/">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.
- Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook — The collision regulations for when you meet boats that aren't racing.
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