Two boats are closing upwind on opposite tacks — who has right of way?

Under Rule 10, the port-tack boat must keep clear of the starboard-tack boat — it doesn't matter which boat is ahead or faster. The starboard boat can hold her course; the port boat has two honest options: tack away early, or point up and wait for the starboard boat to pass.

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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/7RBma8l7nCg/">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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Next on this shelf — The Upwind Beat