The racing rules are quite simply stated, but honestly, can be pretty complicated in practice. However, it is possible to race safely only knowing two key things: “If in doubt, give way” and “Don’t hit another boat”.
- A PDF of the full racing rules of sailing can be found here: Racing Rules of Sailing 2021 – 2024
- US Sailing has an app that contains the Rules Book.
- And for those complicated interpretations of the rules, there is a Case Book with a whole bunch of examples. A PDF of it is here: World Sailing Case Book 2017 – 2020 (the rules have changed very little since 2020). This is a great resource as it explains why the race committee made the decision it did in various situations. Be sure to see Section 2 it has all the good info.
If you don’t want to read the whole rule book, here are the the top 10 commandments of racing.
1) Port keeps clear of starboard. R10
2) Windward keeps clear of leeward when overlapped. R11
3) When on the same tack a boat astern keeps clear of a boat ahead. R12
4) A boat Tacking keeps clear of one that is not tacking. R13
5) If you gain right of way (R15) or change your course (R16.1), give the other boat time (Room) to keep clear.
6) The inside overlapped boat at three boat lengths from the mark is entitled to Mark-Room. R18
7) A boat that is backing-up (R22.3), taking a penalty turn (R22.2) or not racing must keep clear of other boats.
8) If you have broken a rule, always get well clear as soon as you can, and then take your penalty turn(s). R44.2
9) When in doubt give way. No rule, just common sense.
10) Don’t hit anybody. The Racing Rules are defensive and intended to prevent collisions. R14