Two boats meeting at an angle look like port and starboard — how do I know they're not?
Tack is named by which side the boom lies on, not by heading — two boats can point far apart and still be on the same tack. If both booms are out the same side, Rule 10 does not apply; instead Rule 11 governs, and the windward boat (the one nearer the wind, not the one ahead) must keep clear of the leeward boat. Rule 14 still requires the right-of-way boat to avoid contact once it's clear the other boat won't keep clear.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uVlBNyjgqOM" 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/uVlBNyjgqOM/">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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