Rule 10 On Opposite Tacks
Rule 16.1 Changing Course
Position 1
Before the start Yellow and Blue are on opposite tacks with both boats
head to wind. After some time both begin moving astern. At no time does
either move astern by backing a sail. Position 2
Both reach a close hauled course, but continue moving astern. Position 3
Blue begins to move forward on a course to pass in front of Yellow. Yellow
continues to move astern. Position 4
Yellow begins to move forward, and from this moment Blue can no longer
pass in front of Yellow. Blue immediately luffs to tack. Position 5
Blue tacks, but before she reaches close hauled Yellow luffs to avoid
contact.
There is a Y flag. What should the call be?
Answer
Although Yellow did not appear to change compass course between positions 2 and
4, she did change course by reversing the direction in which she was travelling
(astern to ahead). Rule 16.1 required Yellow to give room to Blue, which she did
by luffing at position 5. Display the green and white flag.