Case 18: In the photo below, CL1050 was just ahead of CL2679 when 1050 reached the two-length zone. 1050 then tacked right around the mark.
Did rule 18 give CL1050 protection from the requirements of rule 13 (tacking too close)?

Answer:
No. Because 1050 and 2679 were not overlapped at the zone, rule 18.2(c) applied. That rule specifically states: "If the boat that was clear ahead passes head to wind, rule 18.2(c) no longer applies." Which suggests that other parts of rule 18 may apply. Let us check them out:

  • the rule 18 pre-amble states that for the purposes of rule 18 room includes "room to tack or gybe when either is a normal part of the manoeuvre". This does not apply here since the tack was not a normal part of the rounding manoeuvre, i.e. most people would not tack here.
  • If 18.2(c) no longer applies, then 18.1(b) takes over which states that rule 18 does not apply "between boats on opposite tacks, ... on a beat to windward"
  • and if rule 18 does not apply, then it's back to basics, i.e. rule 13 (tacking too close).

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