How do I know if I'm on port or starboard tack?
Your tack is set by which side the wind hits first: if the wind hits your port (left) side first, you're on port tack; if it hits your starboard (right) side first, you're on starboard. Under Rule 10, a boat on port tack must keep clear of a boat on starboard tack whenever they're on opposite tacks and might collide.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mIEv-0HtCsY" 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/mIEv-0HtCsY/">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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