Two of us are approaching an obstruction — who decides which side we pass?
Whoever holds right of way at that moment. While one boat is clear ahead she is right-of-way under Rule 12 and chooses the side under Rule 19.2(a). The instant the trailing boat draws level and an overlap forms — making her the leeward, right-of-way boat under Rule 11 — the choice passes to her. The outside boat still owes the inside boat room at the obstruction under Rule 19.2(b). (World Sailing Case 124.)
📖 Want Rule 11 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/hPV2Wr6ixYQ" 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/hPV2Wr6ixYQ/">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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