Section F - Reaching
TR CALL F1
Rule 17, On the Same Tack; Proper Course
Question
Under what circumstances can Y establish a leeward overlap from clear astern and still
have the right to sail above her proper course?
Answer
Figure 1: The overlap is established when the boats are more than two hull lengths
apart. Rule 17 doesn’t apply to Y and she is entitled to sail above her proper course.
Figure 2: The overlap is established when the boats are less than two hull lengths apart.
Y may not sail above her proper course while the boats remain within this distance.
However, if Y sails more than two hull lengths away from B without breaking the
overlap, she no longer has a proper course restriction and is entitled to sail above her
proper course.
The distance between boats is measured between the closest points of hull, crew or
equipment in normal position.