RULE 10
Crossing Tacks at the Finish
The right-of-way rules apply right up to the finishing line — port still keeps clear of starboard.
Approaching the finishing line on opposite tacks, the starboard-tack boat keeps right of way to the line and the port-tack boat must keep clear (rule 10). Rule 14 still requires both to avoid contact — a boat can't barge across the line into a foul just because the finish is metres away. Each boat finishes when any part of her hull crosses the line from the course side.
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finishingopposite-tacksport-starboardrule-10
How it interacts with other rules
- Rule 10 — On Opposite Tacks · see also
The same port/starboard rule, here applied at the finishing line.
- Rule 14 — Avoiding Contact · limited by
Even racing for the line, both boats must avoid contact.