Section D - The Windward Leg
TR CALL D5
Rule 11, On the Same Tack, Overlapped
Rule 13, While Tacking
Rule 16.1, Changing Course
Rule 17, On the Same Tack; Proper Course
Question 1
Two boats B and Y are on a beat, having a close tacking duel. Both are on starboard
tack and Y is subject to rule 17. Y luffs to tack astern of B, which she can do if B does
not change course. As soon as Y starts to luff, B also luffs. Y passes through head to
wind and makes contact with B's quarter. B protests. What should the call be?
Answer 1
Until Y passes head to wind, B's only obligation is to keep clear. Y is subject to rule
17 and may only sail above her proper course if she promptly sails astern of B.
As soon as Y passes head to wind, B becomes right of way boat and any change of
course from this moment must comply with rules 16.1. If contact is caused by B's
change of course after position 2, B breaks rules 16.1. Penalize B.
If contact would occur even if B holds her course between position 2 and 3, Y breaks
rules 17 and 13. Penalize Y.
Question 2
Will the answer be different if the contact occurs before Y reaches head to wind?
Answer 2
Y breaks rule 17.
In addition, if B is able to respond to the change of course by Y, but fails to do so and
does not keep clear, then she breaks rule 11. Penalize both boats.
However, if Y's alteration of course does not give B room to keep clear, then Y also
breaks rule 16.1. Penalize Y only.
A boat 'sails astern' (reference rule 17) of another boat if, while sailing on either tack,
she becomes wholly behind a line abeam from the aftermost point of the other's hull
and equipment.