Before the start, overlapped on the same tack — who has right of way?
Pre-start, when two boats are on the same tack and overlapped, Rule 11 still governs: the windward boat must keep clear of the leeward boat. A leeward boat can use this to luff and defend her lane before the gun, and the windward boat must respond in time to stay clear.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WPV4G1X7S-0" 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/WPV4G1X7S-0/">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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