A boat slid in to leeward and hailed 'Leeward boat!' — do I have to move instantly?
No — although Rule 11 makes the windward boat keep clear, Rule 15 says a boat that has just gained right of way must first give you room to keep clear, and room means time to respond. React promptly — trim, build speed, head up — and you've kept clear; you never have to anticipate an overlap before it exists. (World Sailing Case 53.)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DAocUIe-d_c" 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/DAocUIe-d_c/">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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