Rule 18.3 which discourages port tack approaches at port-hand windward marks is even stronger under the new 2013-2016 rules. Wheras the old rule read “The boat that changed tack shall not cause the other boat to sail above close hauled to avoid her”, the new rule reads “The boat that changed tack shall not cause the other boat to sail above close hauled to avoid contact”. The difference is subtle, but important: “avoid her” versus “avoid contact”. The  new rule  means that a boat that changes tack shall not cause ANY boat to have to sail above close hauled to avoid contact with ANY other boat as a result of “her” actions.

 

Come to the “Understanding the Racing Rules of Sailing for 2013-2016” seminar on January 27 at BCYC to learn about this, and all the other changes in the new rules. I hope to see you there!