I had mark-room and tacked to round — so I was still protected, right?
No. The instant your bow passes head to wind, Rule 18 switches off (Rule 18.2(a)(2)) — your mark-room is gone and you're back under the basic right-of-way rules. Now you're on port, she's on starboard, and you must keep clear under Rule 10; while still tacking you also owe Rule 13. Rule 15 doesn't help you — you acquired right of way by your own tack. Fail to keep clear and the contact is your foul under Rule 14. (World Sailing Case 81.)
📖 Want Rule 18 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/euihB2hKa-4" 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/euihB2hKa-4/">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.
- The Sail Racing Bible — A complete guide to dinghy racing.
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