Section C rules do not apply at a starting mark surrounded by navigable water or at its anchor line from the time boats are approaching them to start until they have passed them.
18.1 When Rule 18 Applies
Rule 18 applies between boats when they are required to leave a mark
on the same side and at least one of them is in the zone. However, it
does not apply
(a) between boats on opposite tack on a beat to windward,
(b) between boats on opposite tack, when the proper course at the mark for one but not both of them is to tack,
(c) between a boat approaching mark, and one leaving it, or
(d) if the mark is a continuing obstruction, in which case rule 19.
Rule 18 no longer applies between boats when mark-room been given.