Two of us are squeezing past a starboard boat — do I owe the other one room?
Yes. A right-of-way boat is also an obstruction to anyone who must keep clear of her. When two overlapped boats pass an obstruction, Rule 19.2(b) makes the leeward boat give the windward boat room between herself and the obstruction — and this overrides Rule 11. The leeward boat's right of way does not let her squeeze the windward boat into the starboard boat. (World Sailing Case 11.)
📖 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/fLh_Acd4Za0/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Go deeper: books and gear
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — Situations round the racecourse, worked through for 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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