I hailed for room to tack and she just replied "You tack" — is that allowed?
Yes. Under Rule 20.2(c) the hailed boat may reply "You tack" instead of tacking herself, as long as she then gives you room. And room means the space to tack and keep clear promptly in a seamanlike way — not a comfortable cushion. Ducking her stern by a sliver of clear water is enough, so she met her obligation and won on appeal. World Sailing Case 35.
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<p><a href="https://sailing.kiwi.nz/v/E_duR4sSZYY/">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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