What is the basic right-of-way rule when boats meet on opposite tacks?
Rule- Australia
- Australian Sailing
- Racing Rules of Sailing
- Club racing
- All ages
- 2025-2028
- Sailors
When boats are on opposite tacks, a port-tack boat must keep clear of a starboard-tack boat (rule 10).
A boat has right of way when the other boat is required to keep clear of her. The Part 2 rules apply between boats that are sailing in or near the racing area and intend to race, are racing, or have been racing. Some rules in Sections B, C and D limit the actions of a right-of-way boat.
Source: Racing Rules of Sailing 2025-2028 with Australian Sailing prescriptions, Part 2 introduction and rule 10.
Updated 24 Oct 2026