Running downwind along the shore, I am stuck right behind another boat, with a starboard-tack boat beside me on the open-water side. Do I go inside, by the shore, or outside?
Go outside. The shore is a continuing obstruction. If you push your bow in on the shore side when there is no room to pass, Rule 19.2(c) says you are not entitled to room, and you still have to keep clear. Outside, you become the windward boat and keep clear of the boat ahead (Rule 12 and Rule 11). But you and the starboard boat are overlapped at the shore and she is the outside boat, so under Rule 19.2(b) she must give you room, even though she is on starboard. That room includes the space you need to keep clear of the boat ahead, so she cannot squeeze you into her.
📖 Want Rule 12 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/dFHhNjbdSIw" 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/dFHhNjbdSIw/">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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