What should the port tack boat do?
1. Don’t go to the port tack layline. It’s just asking for trouble. 2. If you find yourself there anyway (the wind does go left from time to time), consider bearing off and sailing fast so that your tack to round the mark will be outside the zone. 3. If you’re on the layline and can do it, duck the starboard boat or boats. Giving up a couple of boatlengths is better than a DSQ. 4. If you’re on the port layline and clearly crossing the starboard boat (s), don’t tack at the mark. Continue on port tack and let the starboard boat(s) round inside you. Once again, you’ll be giving up a little distance but that’s better than the alternative. Another factor to consider here is Rule 14 AVOIDING CONTACT. The starboard tack boat is required to take avoiding action if he thinks the port tack boat is not keeping clear. A Protest Committee is going to listen carefully if the starboard boat says, ” I altered course to avoid contact”.
Related Questions
- Why does the Port run Boyer Park and Marina and how can I contact Boyer for a camping reservation or boat moorage?
- When sailing on Starboard tack and overtaking a Port tack boat and not racing, what is the rule?
- Can a transom-mount transducer be installed on either the starboard or port side of the boat?
