Two boats on the same tack, one catching the other — which one has to keep clear?
When boats are on the same tack and not overlapped, Rule 12 applies: the boat clear astern keeps clear of the boat clear ahead. The faster boat behind carries the whole burden — she must keep out of the way of the boat in front until she establishes an overlap, at which point Rule 11 (overlapped) or Rule 17 (proper course) takes over. Catching the boat ahead never gives you the right to sail into her. (RRS 12.)
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/vu9nsEEKo0E/">Source: Sailing Kiwi</a></p>Recommended reading
- The Rules in Practice 2025-2028 by Bryan Willis — The clearest guide to the racing rules around the racecourse — updated for the current 2025-2028 rulebook.
- Advanced Racing Tactics by Stuart H. Walker — The classic deep-dive on racing tactics — starting, beating, reaching and mark rounding.
📋 The full sailing reading list — all 13 books, free and tickable — opens in ABC, a free checklist app. No login, works offline; some titles carry an Amazon link inside it.
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