We collided at a mark with damage — how can BOTH boats be disqualified?
Rule 14 requires every boat — including the right-of-way boat — to avoid contact if reasonably possible. The keep-clear boat kept no lookout and broke Rule 10 and Rule 14. But the right-of-way boat could have luffed to avoid a collision that caused damage, and didn't — so she's penalised under Rule 14 too. Right of way is not a right to collide. (World Sailing Case 26.)
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/srIpEm5mIXA" 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/srIpEm5mIXA/">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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