I was on starboard — how can I still lose the protest?
Having right of way isn't a free pass. Under Rule 14 you must still avoid contact if reasonably possible, and under Rule 16.1 if you change course you must give the other boat room to keep clear. Starboard-tack boats lose protests when they alter course too late or fail to avoid avoidable contact.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mYKJXeCc0fY" 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/mYKJXeCc0fY/">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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