RS CALL - The Call Book for Radio Sailing

Section B – Boat on boat

RS CALL B5

Rule 10, On Opposite Tacks
Rule 18.1, When Rule 18 Applies

When a boat is approaching a mark and another is leaving it, rule 18 does not apply between them and the rules of Section A of Part 2 apply.

Assumed Facts

S is running on starboard towards a leeward gate mark to be left to port. P rounds the mark and luffs to a close-hauled port tack course on a collision course with S. S luffs to avoid contact.

Question

Which rule, if any, has been broken?

Answer

Because S is approaching the mark and P is leaving it, no part of rule 18 applies; see rule 18.1(c).

P, on port tack, is required to keep clear of S on starboard. S was unable to sail her course and needed to take action to avoid P. P broke rule 10 and should take a penalty.