I crossed behind a starboard boat with no contact — that's fine, right?

Name: Port Tack Racers Keep Making This Mistake
Uploaded: 2026-06-08T12:00:00+12:00
Description: I crossed behind a starboard boat with no contact — that's fine, right? Not necessarily — under Rule 10 the port-tack boat must keep clear, and 'we never touched' is not a defence: if the starboard boat has to bear away to avoid you, you have already broken the rule. Cross only when you are certain you will clear her without forcing her to change course. (World Sailing Case 50.)

Not necessarily — under Rule 10 the port-tack boat must keep clear, and 'we never touched' is not a defence: if the starboard boat has to bear away to avoid you, you have already broken the rule. Cross only when you are certain you will clear her without forcing her to change course. (World Sailing Case 50.)

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I crossed behind a starboard boat with no contact — that's fine, right?

Next on this shelf — The Upwind Beat

Rule 10 — Port and Starboard: Who Has Right of Way?

Rule 11 — Windward Boat Keeps Clear

Rule 15 — You Just Acquired Right of Way (Now Give Room)