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I crossed behind a starboard boat with no contact — that's fine, right?

Not necessarily — under Rule 10 the port-tack boat must keep clear, and 'we never touched' is not a defence: if the starboard boat has to bear away to avoid you, you have already broken the rule. Cross only when you are certain you will clear her without forcing her to change course. (World Sailing Case 50.)

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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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Next on this shelf — The Upwind Beat

Rule 10 — Port and Starboard: Who Has Right of Way?

The most common rules mistake at club level.

Rule 11 — Windward Boat Keeps Clear

Same tack, overlapped — who has to move?

Rule 15 — You Just Acquired Right of Way (Now Give Room)

Rule 15 — acquiring right of way.