I hailed for room — why didn't the other boat have to give it?
Rule 20 only entitles you to room to tack at a genuine obstruction, when you need to make a substantial course change, and you must hail loud enough to be heard. A bad hail, a non-obstruction, or hailing when you could simply duck the other boat — none of those entitle you to room.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6v73oTL6pKk" 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/6v73oTL6pKk/">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.
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